url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-praises-house-passage-covid-19-relief-bill,Johnson Praises House Passage of COVID-19 Relief Bill,2020-12-21,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) issued a statement following the bipartisan U.S. House passage of a COVID-19 relief package, an effort Johnson has spearheaded with the Problem Solvers Caucus since September.

""Congress finally got its act together. I was proud to vote in support of a tailored COVID-19 relief package that supports our small businesses, schools, and hurting American families,"" said Johnson. ""It wasn't a perfect bill, but it's a good one. While it took far too long to get here, we got a good bill across the finish line. The Problem Solvers Caucus was instrumental in getting this done, and I am grateful I had the chance to be a part of historic bipartisan efforts that serve America.

This is an extraordinary measure that meets an extraordinary challenge. With the distribution of a vaccine, there is light at the end of the tunnel. I'm pleased this bill repurposes funds from previous legislation appropriating only an additional $325 billion. As we turn the corner, Congress needs to prioritize an orderly budget process and fund the government in a fiscally sustainable way.""

The relief package, included in the end of the year omnibus spending deal, includes the following Johnson priorities:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-asks-south-dakota-when-do-i-get-vaccine,Johnson Asks South Dakota: “When Do I Get Vaccine?”,2020-12-18,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), in an attempt to increase public discussion about the COVID-19 vaccine, is asking South Dakotans to vote when he should receive his shot.

""Some elected officials, like Vice President Mike Pence, are getting the vaccine early to increase public confidence and model good behavior,"" Johnson said. ""Other leaders are waiting, not wanting to go to the front of the line. Good arguments can be made on both sides, which is why I want South Dakotans to help with this decision.""

Given the toll COVID-19 has taken on the United States, Congressman Johnson heralds the vaccine as an important development and is hopeful a conversation about when he should receive the vaccine will increase awareness and vaccine acceptance.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-backed-surprise-medical-billing-proposal-advances,Johnson-Backed Surprise Medical Billing Proposal Advances,2020-12-15,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – On Friday evening, a bipartisan, bicameral surprise billing agreement was announced by the House Ways and Means Committee, the House Energy and Commerce Committee, the House Education and Labor Committee, and the Senate Health Committee. Surprise billing has been a priority of U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) during his first term and this package will be included in an end of year omnibus bill.

Surprise medical billing occurs when a person receives an unexpectedly high medical bill as a result of being out-of-network, this usually occurs in emergency situations.

The Consumer Protections Against Surprise Medical Bills Act, a Johnson-cosponsored bill, passed out of the Ways and Means Committee in February. Many provisions of this bill were included in the proposal. This legislation protects patients from unexpected medical bills for out-of-network services. Rather than establish a federal rate setting system, it would allow providers and insurance companies to resolve payments through arbitration.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-congratulates-congressional-app-challenge-winner-brookings,Johnson Congratulates Congressional App Challenge Winner from Brookings,2020-12-09,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) congratulated Congressional App Challenge winner, Samyok Nepal, a student from Brookings High School. Nepal designed an app called Bobcat Notify, which alerts students on school closures for snow days.

""Technology is a part of our daily lives,"" said Johnson. ""This congressional app competition was created to capture the interest of students toward a growing field and my office received several outstanding app creations. Samyok's idea and app design were far beyond his years and I'm proud South Dakota is home to such talented young coders and developers.""

""During the spring of 2019, we were hit by an extreme snowstorm that shut schools down for days or in some cases -- weeks at a time,"" said Samyok Nepal. ""Whenever there was snow on the ground, I found myself focusing more on constantly refreshing the school district website instead of working on homework or studying for my next test. Students didn't get notifications about snow days, so I decided to come up with my own solution. After I put the app on social media, it grew quite quickly.""

The Bobcat Notify app has over 1,500 users and can be downloaded in the App Store. Nepal is currently working on expanding his app to all schools in his district. Nepal was selected as the winner by a panel of Computer Science teachers in South Dakota.

Johnson announced the Congressional App Challenge in July. For further information about the Congressional App Challenge, please visit www.CongressionalAppChallenge.us.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/fda-holds-emergency-use-authorization-meetings-johnson-spanberger-push,"As FDA Holds Emergency Use Authorization Meetings, Johnson, Spanberger Push for Guaranteed Access to Free COVID-19 Vaccine for Medicare Beneficiaries, Passage of SAVE for Seniors Act",2020-12-08,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) and Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL) today pushed congressional leadership to pass their bipartisan Securing Affordable Vaccines Equally (SAVE) for Seniors Act to make sure seniors on traditional Medicare have access to a future COVID-19 vaccine without cost-sharing.

The SAVE for Seniors Act would clarify that Medicare must cover – without cost-sharing – a COVID-19 vaccine authorized for emergency use, just as it would do for one licensed under the Public Health Service Act. By closing this loophole, the legislation ensures that seniors are not the only group who must pay out-of-pocket for a COVID-19 vaccine. Nearly all private insurers have committed to covering a COVID-19 vaccination for free, and Medicaid is required to do so at no cost.

""Seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with chronic and complex health conditions are more at risk of suffering severe illness from COVID-19, and many of these individuals receive health coverage through Medicare,"" said Spanberger and Johnson. ""According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 8 out of 10 deaths reported in the U.S. from COVID-19 have been in adults 65 years of age or older. Residents and employees of long-term care facilities are especially vulnerable to the virus, and have accounted for 40% of deaths nationwide. On December 1st, the CDC announced that long-term care residents – many of whom are Medicare beneficiaries – will be the highest priority to receive the vaccine, with seniors and those with underlying conditions next on the list.

Their letter continues, ""Congress must act to clarify that Medicare beneficiaries will not face out-of-pocket costs for a vaccine, regardless of its pathway to market. There is an abundance of research showing that cost sharing causes patients to delay or forgo care. Since both vaccine candidates require two doses and two visits to a provider, removing financial barriers is especially important to ensure individuals complete the full course of immunization.""

The CARES Act, which became law in March 2020, requires Medicare to cover a COVID-19 vaccine without any cost-sharing for the beneficiary, beginning on the date that said vaccine is licensed under Section 351 of the Public Health Service Act. However, due to the urgency of the ongoing pandemic, the most likely pathway to market for a COVID-19 vaccine is through an Emergency Use Authorization, under Section 564 of the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act. In September 2020, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) raised concerns that due to language in the CARES Act, traditional Medicare beneficiaries might face cost-sharing for a COVID-19 vaccine that is authorized for emergency use under the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act.

Johnson and Spanberger introduced the SAVE for Seniors Act in October 2020. The bipartisan bill is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-08), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI-08).

Click here to read the letter, and the full letter text is also below.

---

Dear Speaker Pelosi and Leader McCarthy,

We urge you to pass the Secure Affordable Vaccines Equally (SAVE) for Seniors Act (H.R. 8623) ahead of any decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to authorize a COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use. The SAVE for Seniors Act fixes a loophole in the CARES Act that could cause Medicare beneficiaries to face cost sharing for a vaccine authorized for emergency use rather than licensed under the Public Health Service Act.

Seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with chronic and complex health conditions are more at risk of suffering severe illness from COVID-19, and many of these individuals receive health coverage through Medicare. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 8 out of 10 deaths reported in the U.S. from COVID-19 have been in adults 65 years of age or older. Residents and employees of long-term care facilities are especially vulnerable to the virus, and have accounted for 40% of deaths nationwide. On December 1st, the CDC announced that long-term care residents – many of whom are Medicare beneficiaries – will be the highest priority to receive the vaccine, with seniors and those with underlying conditions next on the list.

Congress must act to clarify that Medicare beneficiaries will not face out-of-pocket costs for a vaccine, regardless of its pathway to market. There is an abundance of research showing that cost sharing causes patients to delay or forgo care. Since both vaccine candidates require two doses and two visits to a provider, removing financial barriers is especially important to ensure individuals complete the full course of immunization.

There is no time to waste. The FDA has scheduled meetings to discuss Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for Pfizer's and Moderna's vaccine candidates on December 10th and 17th respectively. Once the EUAs are granted, vaccines will start being shipped to providers within hours and administered to priority patients shortly thereafter.

Again, we urge you to act quickly to ensure Medicare beneficiaries do not face barriers to receiving any eventual COVID-19 vaccine by passing SAVE for Seniors as soon as possible.

---",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-legislation-honoring-ben-reifel-headed-president-s-desk,Johnson Legislation Honoring Ben Reifel Headed to Presidents Desk,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. Today, legislation authored by U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) to honor former Congressman and Rosebud Sioux tribal member Ben Reifel passed the U.S. Senate and will head to the president's desk for his signature. The bill designates the United States Postal Service building in Rosebud, South Dakota, as the Ben Reifel Post Office Building.
Ben Reifel represented South Dakota well, and his legacy will live on, said Johnson. I'm grateful to play a small role in ensuring his name is displayed throughout our great state. Our tribal communities are full of tremendous leaders and Ben Reifel is proof of that.
Former Congressman Ben Reifel was a strong proponent of the Indian Civil Rights Act and fought to ensure that tribes received proper compensation for native land transfers. He was a leader in Congress on Indian Affairs and the first person of Lakota Sioux descent in Congress.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-legislation-honoring-ben-reifel-headed-presidents-desk,Johnson Legislation Honoring Ben Reifel Headed to President’s Desk,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, legislation authored by U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) to honor former Congressman and Rosebud Sioux tribal member Ben Reifel passed the U.S. Senate and will head to the president's desk for his signature. The bill designates the United States Postal Service building in Rosebud, South Dakota, as the Ben Reifel Post Office Building.

""Ben Reifel represented South Dakota well, and his legacy will live on,"" said Johnson. ""I'm grateful to play a small role in ensuring his name is displayed throughout our great state. Our tribal communities are full of tremendous leaders and Ben Reifel is proof of that.""

Former Congressman Ben Reifel was a strong proponent of the Indian Civil Rights Act and fought to ensure that tribes received proper compensation for native land transfers. He was a leader in Congress on Indian Affairs and the first person of Lakota Sioux descent in Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-weapon-system-provision-included-ndaa-conference-report,Johnson Weapon System Provision Included in NDAA Conference Report,2020-12-04,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, a provision authored by U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) to improve the Department of Defense's (DoD) approach to overseeing weapon systems investments was included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021 Conference Report.

""This bipartisan provision streamlines America's weapon system investments, saves the taxpayer money, and improves national security,"" said Johnson. ""My provision will optimize our investment in weapons systems within the DoD and I'm proud it was included in the final NDAA Conference Report. I'm grateful both sides were able to reach an agreement to provide a pay increase to our servicemembers and enhance our military readiness around the globe.""

This provision will require DoD to develop a formal implementation plan to establish the necessary technology, systems, and data to perform enterprise-level portfolio management. As a result, the Department will be on a path toward maximizing taxpayer dollars to develop and field capabilities required by our men and women in uniform. This is the fifth provision authored by Johnson to pass the House during his first term.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/problem-solvers-caucus-pushes-their-bicameral-bipartisan-emergency-covid-19,"PROBLEM SOLVERS CAUCUS PUSHES THEIR BICAMERAL, BIPARTISAN EMERGENCY COVID-19 RELIEF PACKAGE",2020-12-03,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Thursday, December 3, 2020, members of the Problem Solvers Caucus stood together to fight for their common-sense bipartisan, bicameral COVID-19 emergency relief package. It is being supported by a rapidly growing group of Senators on both sides of the aisle, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and others to help American families, small businesses, workers, and health care providers during this crisis.

Leaders in both parties have stated support for the Problem Solvers Caucus' framework as the basis for immediate bipartisan, bicameral legislation.

Rep. Dusty Johnson said, ""It's time to act. Our relief proposal has gained broad support amongst businesses, political leaders, and most importantly, the American people. Let's get something done TODAY.""

""We won't leave town until we pass a bipartisan COVID-19 relief package,"" said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Josh Gottheimer. ""Too many families, small businesses, and communities are suffering all across our country — and that's why the momentum around our bipartisan, bicameral framework is continuing to grow by the hour.""

""The bipartisan, bicameral relief package we've put forward with our Senate partners is already generating significant support from leaders across Washington because it is right in the range of reason,"" said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Tom Reed. ""Millions of Americans don't have time for Congress to continue playing games; let's pass this common-sense emergency relief measure to ensure our communities receive the federal support they deserve.""

""Vision without action is just a daydream, and we have had enough daydreaming in Congress. We need to show Americans and our allies across the world that the great experiment of America still works. The clock is ticking, but we can and must pass the Emergency COVID Relief Framework. Failure is not an option when Americans are suffering,"" said Rep. Dean Phillips.

""The effects of this pandemic have been cruelly uneven. While some individuals and businesses remain unscathed or even better off, others have been completely devastated. Only those living in a beltway fantasy land are immune from the cries for help to get through the winter. This bipartisan compromise is an essential lifeline that must be a starting point for Democratic and Republican leadership to demonstrate that the United States government can actually fulfill its obligation to serve the American people. We cannot, in good conscience, leave DC before the holidays without a relief package,"" said Rep. Tom Suozzi.

""While news about vaccines gives us hope for the future, right now Americans are suffering in even greater numbers as the COVID pandemic crisis deepens. This bipartisan, bicameral emergency relief plan formulated by the Problems Solvers Caucus and a bipartisan group of senators is our best hope for providing the emergency relief needed now by families, students, workers, small businesses, and health care providers. Democrats and Republicans, representatives and senators, Congress and the White House, all must come together to get this commonsense plan passed for the American people,"" said Rep. Dan Lipinski.

""As COVID cases skyrocket nationwide, Americans are struggling. It is getting more and more difficult for small businesses to keep their lights on and workers employed,"" said Rep. Kurt Schrader. ""Folks need relief now and it's time to put party aside and do what is right. This package is a bipartisan, bicameral solution, supported by House and Senate leadership and President-Elect Biden. It is the only one of its kind. I urge leaders of the House and Senate to put this package on the floor now and get aid into the hands of the American people.""

""Our small business owners, teachers, workers, first responders, healthcare workers are doing everything they can to weather this crisis –– and they want to look to Washington and see that we are, too. There is no excuse for not passing a COVID relief package before the winter holidays. It is our fundamental responsibility as legislators. That's why I'm proud to join the Problem Solvers Caucus and a group of Senators from both sides of the aisle in putting forth this bipartisan, bicameral emergency relief proposal to take us through April 1st. Our group has been working diligently behind the scenes to get to this proposal. With support from Senators and 50 members of Congress on both sides of the aisle, we can, and must get this done,"" said Rep. Elissa Slotkin.

""This framework is the direct result of continued bipartisan collaboration between lawmakers from both chambers of Congress. Central New York and our nation desperately need additional COVID-19 relief. This bipartisan, bicameral framework represents an important step forward in delivering critical relief to the frontlines,"" said Rep. John Katko.

""The work being done by the Problem Solvers Caucus is bipartisan and bicameral. Our Caucus is working to deliver real results to the American people in their time of need,"" said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. ""Further delays in relief are unacceptable, and we need to provide real solutions that help the American people. We need to do our job and get America back to work.""

""We must come together to deliver timely, targeted, and transparent COVID relief to the American people. We are still experiencing a historic pandemic. Our families, workers, communities and businesses need help to make it through. I'm proud to be a part of this bipartisan, bicameral effort to pass another relief package. Our framework includes expanded unemployment assistance, help for our hospitals and schools, state and local funding, and relief for small businesses. Importantly, it has the bipartisan support to pass into law. It's time to put political games aside and take action,"" said Rep. Kendra Horn.

""I am pleased to support a targeted relief package for the people of Pennsylvania and our country. This bicameral, bipartisan framework is focused on bolstering our economic recovery, supporting our schools, and distributing safe and effective vaccines in an efficient manner. I hope my colleagues in the House and Senate join the Problem Solvers to deliver immediate assistance for the millions of Americans who are counting on us,"" said Rep. Dan Meuser.

""Coronavirus cases are surging to unprecedented levels and millions of Americans have lost their jobs or their businesses to the pandemic. Sadly, many are now facing poverty, food insecurity, and eviction. The American people need immediate relief, and they are tired of waiting for Congress to do its job,"" said Rep. Salud Carbajal. ""Our proposal is a bipartisan down-payment, which is necessary to preserve the health and economic well-being of our country until the next Administration takes office. I'm proud of the bipartisan and bicameral package we've put forward and I urge my colleagues to pass this as soon as possible to deliver the immediate relief Americans need.""

""With COVID-19 cases surging across the country, many Americans still out of work, small businesses continuing to struggle, and state and local governments teetering towards a fiscal cliff, Americans are desperate for more relief. This bipartisan, bicameral COVID-19 relief package will see us through the worst of this crisis and give American families, small businesses, workers, and health care providers the support they need. Inaction is not an option any longer,"" said Rep. Joe Cunningham.

""Eight months after the CARES Act became law, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to devastate families and small businesses across our nation,"" said Rep. Elaine Luria. ""Congress must do its job by finding common ground and putting forth a realistic COVID-19 relief package. I am encouraged by this framework that presents the viable and bipartisan proposals our communities need during this unprecedented public health emergency and economic crisis.""

""Right now, Americans are out of work, small businesses are closing their doors, and communities nationwide face incredible financial strain as they endure this bruising pandemic,"" said Rep. Jimmy Panetta. ""Our Problem Solvers Caucus bipartisan, bicameral package delivers relief to our nation's families, small businesses, workers, and health care providers, who have carried the burden of this pandemic for too long without comprehensive federal relief. It's time for Congress to step up, get back to the negotiating table, and provide the support the Central Coast and communities nationwide so desperately need.""

We cannot wait any longer for COVID relief. In addition to the heartbreaking loss from the pandemic, Washington inaction is hurting our communities. Our families, schools, small businesses, local governments, essential workers, and local economies need assistance. This compromise, led by members of both parties and both the House and Senate, needs to get done. With critical aid to small businesses, unemployment benefits, money for state and local governments, investment in education, child care, health care, and the postal service, we can get help to those who need it most. It's time to cut through the partisan politics and deliver much-needed relief,"" said Rep. Anthony Brindisi.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-manchin-collins-warner-cassidy-shaheen-murkowski-king-romney-hassan,"JOHNSON, MANCHIN, COLLINS, WARNER, CASSIDY, SHAHEEN, MURKOWSKI, KING, ROMNEY, HASSAN ANNOUNCE BIPARTISAN, BICAMERAL COVID-19 EMERGENCY RELIEF FRAMEWORK",2020-12-01,2020,2020-12,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME), Mark Warner (D-VA), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Angus King (I-ME), Mitt Romney (R-UT), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Gottheimer (D-NJ-5), Tom Reed (R-NY-23), Anthony Gonzalez (R-OH-16), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Dean Phillips (D-MN-3), Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-7), and Fred Upton (R-MI-6) of the Problem Solvers Caucus announced a bipartisan, bicameral COVID-19 emergency relief framework that will help American students, families, businesses, workers, and health care providers during this crisis. The Problem Solvers Caucus, made up of 25 Democrats and 25 Republicans, helped draft and endorsed the package. A breakdown of the COVID-19 emergency relief framework can be found here.

""Our nation's top economists have made it clear: Congress needs to act sooner than later on targeted focused relief,"" said Rep. Dusty Johnson (SD-AL). ""I'm proud to be a part of this bipartisan, bicameral group that's put much-needed relief before politics. More than half of these dollars have been repurposed from CARES Act funding – it's a responsible proposal. Our teachers, healthcare workers, business owners, and producers continue to step up as we battle COVID-19, it's time Congress does too.""

""Millions of Americans have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and are hurting, but Congress has been deadlocked for months with both sides unwilling to compromise to help our fellow Americans who are in desperate need,"" Senator Manchin said. ""The bipartisan, bicameral framework announced today proves that we can reach across the aisle and create meaningful compromise that will help those who need it most for the next few months. Our $908 billion framework provides our front line healthcare providers, students, families, small businesses, and workers with the support they need and deserve during this devastating pandemic. I urge my fellow colleagues to work with our bipartisan, bicameral group on this proposal so Congress can finally pass an emergency COVID-19 relief package to help Americans and West Virginians during this difficult stretch of the pandemic.""

""This bipartisan, bicameral group worked night and day throughout the Thanksgiving recess because we recognize that families all across America are struggling, that businesses are closing, and that hospitals are overwhelmed,"" said Senator Collins. ""I am particularly pleased that this package includes funding for another round of Paycheck Protection Program forgivable loans, which has helped keep our small businesses afloat. In Maine alone, the PPP has helped sustain the jobs of 250,000 workers.""

""After many days of bipartisan negotiations, I'm proud that we've reached a compromise to help Americans get through the holiday season, while providing much-needed relief for small businesses, local governments, health care providers, and low-income and minority communities, among others,"" said Senator Warner. ""I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to put the months of stalled negotiations behind us, and to support this bipartisan compromise in order to ensure that families across the country are not forced to spend the holiday unable to put food on the table.""

""This is a bipartisan, bicameral effort that creates a pathway forward to bring relief to those who need it most. Republicans and Democrats in both chambers got much of what we wanted, and neither got everything we wanted. That combination reflects what Congress is supposed to do: reconcile priorities and deliver for the American people,"" said Dr. Cassidy.

""Throughout New Hampshire – from small businesses struggling to make payroll to hospitals fighting to keep their doors open and beds available – I'm hearing from Granite Staters who cannot wait any longer. And they shouldn't. Over a quarter of a million Americans have died from COVID and more than 13.5 million Americans have been afflicted with it. The human toll of this crisis is crushing – and that's before we even address the severe economic fallout it created,"" said Senator Shaheen. ""Some of those hardest hit have been our small businesses. When this body came together in March, we worked in good-faith to deliver the CARES Act that provided immediate relief through the Paycheck Protection Program and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. We put our heads together again and have come up with a new bipartisan framework to build on that progress to help small businesses get to the other side of this crisis, and to provide funds for state and local government governments, support for vaccine development and distribution, assistance for our schools and universities, and relief for our health care providers. But this is just step one. We need more leaders on both sides of the aisle to join us so we can finish what we've started and deliver the relief that Americans are calling for.""

""I am honored to work with an exceptional group of Senators, as well as colleagues in the House, on a bipartisan measure to help respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. In my home state of Alaska, Anchorage is officially going into our third round of hunker-down orders, shutting down businesses, restaurants, bars, hair salons, gyms—essentially bringing to a halt the day-to-day life of many people in Anchorage. Many of our rural villages and off road communities are also in various stages of shutdown to control the spread of this awful virus. These lockdowns come at a significant cost. As the long winter approaches, the uncertainties of job loss, food insecurity, and stable housing all continue to grow,"" said Senator Murkowski. ""Our response – our responsibility – is to come together not as Republicans with a plan or Democrats with a counter-plan, but coming together with a proposal that will provide for targeted emergency relief for the American people. I am calling on my colleagues to join us in advancing the proposal we offer today, to provide much-needed relief for our nation.""

""After nearly nine months of the coronavirus pandemic and far too little federal support, millions of Americans are facing financial ruin. It's past time for Congress to put political arguments aside and step up for those in need,"" said Senator King. ""If enacted into law, today's bipartisan package would increase unemployment benefits to help families make ends meet, give essential assistance to small businesses on the verge of closing, provide funds to the state and local governments who've led the response to this crisis, and much more – including support for schools, hospitals, and vaccine distribution. This plan isn't perfect, and will require future Congressional action in order to help our country fully weather this pandemic – but if we pass this bill before the year's end, we'll extend a lifeline to millions of Americans in need just as cases are spiking, CARES Act protections are expiring, and winter is arriving. The American people need us to work together to save lives and livelihoods – so let's get it done.""

""This is not a $1.8 trillion stimulus bill. This is a relief measure half that amount—$908 billion, with $560 billion in repurposed funds from the first CARES Act, so the amount of new money is actually $348 billion,"" Senator Romney said. ""Included in this measure is a liability provision that provides a temporary suspension of any liability-related lawsuits at the state or federal level associated with COVID-19, giving states enough time to put in place their own protections. I am very pleased to be part of this effort, and urge my colleagues to come together on a deal.""

""Our bipartisan COVID-19 emergency relief framework provides the most viable path forward in months, and we must seize this opportunity now to provide critical relief for the American people,"" Senator Hassan said. ""I am grateful to my colleagues from both parties for coming together on this bipartisan effort, and I will do everything I can to get a deal across the finish line.""

""This is a win for the American people, for common sense, and for problem solving. With cases spiking, winter around the corner, and countless small businesses closing every day, and far too many families hurting, we simply cannot leave anyone out in the cold. This is an essential down payment on what our families, small businesses, and local communities need,"" said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), Co-Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus. ""This four-month COVID-19 emergency relief package will get us through the hardest months of winter and into a new Administration.""

""For far too long, working families, small businesses, local governments, critical health care providers, and school districts across America have been left wondering when Washington would stop the partisan bickering and pass a comprehensive stimulus package,"" said Congressman Tom Reed (NY-23), Co-Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus. ""Now, we have a bipartisan, bicameral deal that directly addresses the needs of the nation and best positions the country for an effective rollout of a COVID-19 vaccine. It's time to come together as proud Americans and get the job done.""

""With the development of multiple successful vaccines, we are on the cusp of beating covid-19 and restoring our way of life, but we are not there yet. This sensible, bipartisan, bicameral proposal will provide those most in need with the bridge necessary to see us through this crisis. The time to act is now,"" said Rep. Anthony Gonzalez (OH-16).

""The need is great, the time is short, and the urgency is real. Our bipartisan, bicameral working group has found common ground, and now Congress must begin restoring faith in our government by passing an emergency COVID relief measure before year's end,"" said Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-3).

""Working families, small businesses, restaurant owners, and our communities need relief — and Congress must act. The failure to provide that relief over the last several months has been shameful, especially given that there are relief provisions and programs that are supported by both parties and both chambers of Congress, and most importantly, needed by the American people and our economy,"" said Rep. Abigail Spanberger (VA-7). ""This bipartisan, bicameral package reflects the priorities of the Seventh District — including funding for unemployment assistance, PPP, food assistance programs and our district's farmers, rental assistance, broadband internet, and opioid treatment. Today we have demonstrated that we can unite around a common purpose in the face of a national emergency, and I urge my colleagues — as well as House and Senate leadership — to bring this package forward for a vote.""

""Michigan just had the deadliest month from COVID-19 since the pandemic begin. I hear daily from constituents who are struggling to make ends meet. Congress should not go home until we are able to get a COVID-19 deal passed and signed, delivering real help to those who need it most. It's time for us to step up, and our colleagues need to get behind this effort or out of the way,"" said Rep. Fred Upton (MI-6)",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:42:23Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-applauds-senate-passage-impact-aid-bill,Johnson Applauds Senate Passage of Impact Aid Bill,2020-11-12,2020,2020-11,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) applauded the Senate passage of his bipartisan bill to safeguard Educational Impact Aid for military and tribal schoolchildren amid the pandemic. The bill is now headed to the President's desk to be signed into law. The Impact Aid Coronavirus Relief Act (H.R. 8472) ensures that Federal Impact Aid for public school districts with high concentrations of children of U.S. servicemembers and tribal land will not be adversely affected by COVID-19. Johnson's bipartisan bill was first introduced on August 25th, and was passed in the House by unanimous consent on October 2nd. Senator Thune led this legislation in the Senate.

""In October, I visited with Bennett County High School administrators. They stressed the importance of this program when it comes to ensuring their school has the funding it needs to get by,"" said Johnson. ""This fix will provide certainty to schools like Bennett, and I'm grateful for the bipartisan work that was put into this to make sure it got done before the end of the year.""

The Impact Aid Program is critical for schools located on federal property. These public schools collect less in local property taxes to fund their schools and without the program would be underfunded. The bill allows these districts to use their student headcount from the 2020-2021 school year, which have already been calculated, for their Impact Aid applications for the 2021-2022 school year, which are due this fall.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:39:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/america-special-place,America is a Special Place,2020-10-30,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"I was reminded of that this week as I had coffee with Svitlana and Iryna. Both of these women moved to America from Ukraine two years ago. Both are married to hardworking husbands, and both have children.

Over coffee we discussed our families, our work experiences, and the differences between Ukraine and the United States. According to Iryna and Svitlana, the bread is better in the Ukraine, but the people in America are much nicer. In South Dakota, ""everyone smiles all the time,"" they told me.

Their journeys to America weren't easy. They dealt with years of paperwork and the complications of moving. Once here, they faced the confusion of a new language, new measuring systems, new practices, and starting over with a brand new life. Both ladies are college-educated and worked professional jobs in Ukraine. Once they settled in South Dakota, Iryna worked in a factory making furniture and Svitlana worked at a meat processing facility. Both jobs placed substantial physical demands on them.

With radical change in most every aspect of their life, at times Svitlana, Iryna and their families were simply shell-shocked. They have grown to love America, but initially, Svitlana said, ""there were days when we just sat in our apartment, wondering what we had done.""

I asked them why they did it. Why come to America, when doing so would cause them so much disruption and challenge?

They talked about the conflict between Russia and the Ukraine, and about the freedoms Americans enjoy, but there was an even greater motivator for both families to immigrate. ""In America, if you work hard, you can find opportunity,"" Iryna told me. ""I wanted that, especially for my children.""

Our country is experiencing a particularly divided and acrimonious time. Many of us have grown quick to highlight the weaknesses of our country and our fellow Americans. As I listened to the incredible experiences of these two women over coffee, though, I was filled with admiration for them and pride for this country. I was reminded that America is a special place.

It's a special place for many reasons, but not least because courageous, hardworking, caring, dedicated, talented, and persistent women like Svitlana and Iryna want to make this their home. I'm glad they do.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/interior-announces-delisting-gray-wolf-lower-48,Interior Announces the Delisting of the Gray Wolf in the Lower 48,2020-10-29,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, members of the Western Caucus released the following statements after Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt announced the delisting of the gray wolf in the lower 48 states.

""Today is a great victory for science and professional wildlife management. The gray wolf is one of the few actual success stories of the Endangered Species Act and has met every scientific criteria for delisting. Its delisting will cede control back to where it belongs, state and tribal governments. This is a clear win for the farmers, ranchers, and every day citizens who's livelihoods have been threatened by growing unmanaged gray wolf populations. I applaud President Trump and Secretary Bernhardt for acting on sound science and taking this decisive action,"" said Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Paul Gosar (AZ-04).

""This final rule puts the process of managing the gray wolf back where it belongs – in the capable hands of individual states. Over the past decade, our courts have been abused by radical environmental groups filing frivolous lawsuits to prevent states from managing the gray wolf population, despite repeated delisting decisions. I applaud the rule announced today that will provide individuals with the certainty they need to protect their livestock and livelihoods under their respective state's management of the gray wolf,""said Republican Conference Chair Liz Cheney (WY-AL).

""The Endangered Species Act is intended to restore populations, and accordingly the gray wolf is no longer endangered. I applaud the Administration for working to ensure state governments, our ranchers, and landowners have a say over the management of the gray wolf in the future,"" said Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-AL).

""The gray wolf is an Endangered Species Act success story. By empowering states to manage gray wolf populations, the federal government is recognizing the effectiveness of locally-led conservation efforts, basing management decisions on sound science – instead of politics, and providing certainty to families, farmers, and rural communities in Central Washington and throughout the country. This action is one of the many steps the Trump Administration is taking to modernize the Endangered Species Act and protect American wildlife, and I look forward to continuing to build upon these efforts in Congress,"" said Vice Chairman for the Department of Energy and Interior Dan Newhouse (WA-04).

""The gray wolf is one of the most successful species recoveries in history, despite the mounds of federal red tape and abusive litigation preventing this long-overdue delisting. It's unfortunate it took this long for the federal government to turn management back to the states, when in fact state management and expertise is what got us to where we are today. Once again, the Trump Administration and DOI leadership took action to move good policy forward,"" said Chair Emeritus Rob Bishop (UT-01).

""Thanks to the tireless effort of the Fish and Wildlife Service and dozens of successful collaborative restoration projects across the west, the gray wolf has rebounded significantly over the past two decades. Scientific measurements of wolf populations have consistently shown the substantial restoration progress made by this administration, and I applaud the Secretary of Interior for following that science and delisting the gray wolf. This is yet another example of how a local stakeholder-driven process can provide successful restoration results, and we look forward to the continued progress on restoring other listed species,"" said Vice Chairman for Infrastructure and Forestry Bruce Westerman (AR-04).

""Ranchers across the American West have lost livestock because of ever growing gray wolf populations with no way to protect their herds from this threat. Additionally, families are defenseless should their pets, or even children, become threatened by a gray wolf attack. Gray wolf populations have exceeded recovery expectations for years, and three Administrations have tried to de-list the gray wolf from the Endangered Species Act. President Trump and Secretary Bernhardt finally got it done. Turning gray wolf population management back over to states and tribes will give back local control and inevitably save cattle, sheep, other livestock, and families from the threat of a grey wolf. This is a great win for the West, and I thank the Trump Administration for consistently prioritizing agribusinesses and public safety across America,"" said Vice Chairman for Agriculture and Chief Business Officer Doug LaMalfa (CA-01).

""I applaud the decision of the Trump administration to return the gray wolf and species management to where it properly belongs: with the states and tribes. The improper listing of the gray wolf allowed unelected bureaucrats, in the name of protecting a wolf that doesn't need protection, to limit the use of public and private land throughout the country. President Trump continues his promise of making America great by deregulating and returning powers back to state and local governments,"" said Vice Chairman for Regulatory Reform Andy Biggs (AZ-05).

""Today's announcement represents an important first step toward restoring the authority of state wildlife officials to control the skyrocketing gray wolf population in Wisconsin. Secretary Bernhardt and Director Skipwith deserve credit for providing this long-overdue relief to Wisconsin farmers, ranchers and sportsmen and I look forward to working with the Trump administration on a permanent legislative solution that prevents any future federal interference in our local efforts to manage these predators,"" said Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07).

""In northern Minnesota, proper management of the gray wolf is important to maintaining our way of life. Therefore, I applaud President Trump, Secretary Bernhardt, and Director Skipwith for listening to sound science and rightfully delisting the gray wolf in the lower 48 states. With Minnesota's whitetail firearm season so close, this announcement could not have come at a better time, as empowering state agencies to responsibly manage gray wolf will help to conserve our deer herd for generations while putting cattle farmers at ease,""said Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08).

""The delisting of the gray wolf is an important milestone that illustrates the positive gains made in recovering this treasured species. I appreciate the efforts of all federal, state, tribal and local stakeholders in protecting and growing the gray wolf population. The delisting component of the Endangered Species Act is a critical mechanism that shifts the management of sufficiently recovered species habitat to state and local authorities, thereby allowing our federal agencies to shift and maintain their focus on species facing a more significant threat to their survival,"" said Congressman Ken Calvert (CA-42).

""In Eastern Washington, and especially in Northeastern Washington, wolf predation on calves has become common. I regularly hear from people who've seen wolves around their property and who cannot defend themselves without risking a felony. By delisting the gray wolf and restoring local decision-making, we can allow people in our state and community to use science-based wolf management practices that will benefit both our endangered and native animals while protecting farmers and ranchers. As the Obama administration made clear in 2013, the gray wolf is recovered. Unfortunately, the gray wolf was not delisted. Thank you to the Trump administration for respecting local decision-making and delisting this recovered species in the lower 48 states,"" said Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05).

""Minnesotans are great stewards of America's wildlife, but the Gray Wolf has long threatened farmers, their families, and their livelihoods. I applaud Secretary David Bernhardt and the Department of Interior for their work to return conservation efforts back to the states and local communities they impact. Delisting the Gray Wolf will give Minnesota farmers the ability to protect their land and livestock. Minnesotans of both parties have sought this action for years, and I am grateful to the Trump Administration for recognizing that this species has successfully recovered, and for restoring local control,"" said Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06).

""Oregon's wolf population grew over 15 percent last year, and meanwhile, wolves continue to kill livestock in the area under federal management, with little recourse for local ranchers. Today's action by the Trump Administration to officially delist the gray wolf from the Endangered Species List is long overdue. This move will allow our state wildlife officials to manage the wolves more effectively by allowing for a single management plan under local control,"" said Congressman Greg Walden (OR-02).

""I have said all along that listing decisions need to be made with two things in mind, the science and the preparedness of states to manage species. I believe the science is clear and this Administration, like the previous Administration, agrees that wolves are recovered. Idaho has been the test case for state management and the benefits to other wildlife, livestock, and our ecosystem shows that that state management works. I applaud this decision and look forward to other states following the lead of Idaho and successfully managing the gray wolf population,"" said Congressman Mike Simpson (ID-02).

""Thank you to Secretary Bernhardt for making a decision based on science and facts to delist the gray wolf from the List of Endangered Species. State and local officials are better equipped to make important decisions about how best to manage wildlife populations while protecting farmers, ranchers, and businesses. I applaud the Secretary for this thoughtful decision,"" said Congressman Ken Buck (CO-04).

Background

Western Caucus members have been leading voices in support of delisting the gray wolf. This Congress, Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI-07) introduced H.R. 8180, the ""Managing Predators Act"". This legislation would remove the gray wolf from list of endangered species under the ESA, similar to the action taken by Secretary Bernhardt today.

In addition, during the debate on the Interior Appropriations Bill, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) offered an amendment to delist the gray wolf. Mr. Stauber also highlighted the importance of this issue at a Natural Resources Committee hearing in March 2019. That clip can be seen HERE.

The Western Caucus has also been a leader on reforming the nearly five decades old Endangered Species Act (ESA). Last year, Western Caucus members introduced a 17 bill package aimed at reforming and modernizing the ESA. More information on that package can be seen HERE.

Background courtesy of DOI

Thanks to the partnerships involving states, tribes, conservation organizations and private landowners galvanized under the Endangered Species Act, the Trump Administration is turning management of all gray wolves back to the states and tribes who have been so central to the species' recovery. This rule excludes Mexican gray wolves, which would remain listed under the ESA.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-spanberger-introduce-save-seniors-act-guarantee-access-free-covid-19,"Johnson, Spanberger Introduce SAVE for Seniors Act to Guarantee Access to Free COVID-19 Vaccine for Medicare Beneficiaries",2020-10-21,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) introduced the Securing Affordable Vaccines Equally (SAVE) for Seniors Act, bipartisan legislation that would ensure seniors on traditional Medicare have access to a future COVID-19 vaccine without cost-sharing.

The CARES Act, which became law in March 2020, requires Medicare to cover a COVID-19 vaccine without any cost-sharing for the beneficiary, beginning on the date that said vaccine is licensed under Section 351 of the Public Health Service Act. However, due to the urgency of the ongoing pandemic, the most likely pathway to market for a COVID-19 vaccine is through an Emergency Use Authorization, under Section 564 of the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act. Last month, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) raised concerns that due to language in the CARES Act, traditional Medicare beneficiaries might face cost-sharing for a COVID-19 vaccine that is authorized for emergency use under the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act.

The SAVE for Seniors Act would clarify that Medicare must cover – without cost-sharing – a COVID-19 vaccine authorized for emergency use, just as it would have done for one licensed under the Public Health Service Act. By closing this loophole, the legislation ensures that seniors are not the only group who has to pay out-of-pocket for a COVID-19 vaccine. Nearly all private insurers have committed to covering a COVID-19 vaccination for free, and Medicaid is required to do so at no cost.

""From the onset, we've known that COVID-19 disproportionately impacts our senior citizens,"" said Johnson. ""Making sure that as many people as possible can receive a safe COVID-19 vaccine is critical, and our bill will ensure the vaccine is covered for South Dakota seniors.""

""Seniors are the most vulnerable to COVID-19, and ensuring that older Americans have affordable, easy access to a vaccine must be a top priority,"" said Spanberger. ""This bill would correct a critical error in the CARES Act that could inadvertently force Medicare beneficiaries to pay out of pocket for a COVID-19 vaccine. As multiple pharmaceutical companies conduct drug trials on potential vaccines and public health experts warn about a cold-weather resurgence of the coronavirus, correcting this error is an urgent need. Cost shouldn't be a prohibitive barrier for any American looking to protect themselves with a vaccine, and I'm proud to work quickly – and on a bipartisan basis – to make sure seniors in Central Virginia and across the country can count on a free COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it is available.""

The SAVE for Seniors Act is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-08), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI-08).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-proposal-combines-dc-suburbs-maryland,Johnson Proposal Combines DC Suburbs with Maryland,2020-10-07,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) introduced the District of Columbia-Maryland Reunion Act, legislation that would revert the majority of Washington, D.C., suburbs to the state of Maryland. The National Capitol Service Area, consisting solely of the National Mall and federal buildings would remain the District of Columbia.

""The Founders never intended statehood for our nation's capital,"" said Johnson. ""Rather than create a new state out of D.C., it makes more sense to return suburban areas back to the original state that possessed them, Maryland. As the push for D.C. statehood continues, Congress should consider alternatives that not only make sense for the residents of D.C. but also for the nation as a whole.""

In 1847, thirty-one miles were returned to the state of Virginia. Currently, the District of Columbia does not have voting representation in Congress, however, the district receives three electoral votes in the presidential election. Johnson also introduced a resolution to repeal the 23rd Amendment which provides electoral votes to the District of Columbia. If residential areas of Washington were returned to the state of Maryland, residents would have full representation in Congress, in addition to representation through the Electoral College.

A bill to give statehood to Washington, D.C., passed the U.S. House on June 26, 2020. This bill has not been considered by the U.S. Senate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/what-they-re-saying-johnson-leads-cattle-reform-bill-house,What Theyre Saying:  Johnson Leads Cattle Reform Bill in the House,2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. On Thursday, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) introduced the PRICE Act, a bill that provides greater price reporting and transparency, comprehensive risk management solutions, bolsters small processor and producer-owned cooperative processing opportunities, and updates the Packer and Stockyards Act to create a cattle contract library.
Cosponsors of the bill include Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Mike Conaway (R-TX), and Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL), Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (R-PA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Frank Lucas (R-OK), Greg Gianforte (R-MT), David Rouzer (R-NC), Rick Crawford (R-AR), Jason Smith (R-MO), Tom Emmer (R-MN), and Jim Hagedorn (R-MN).Here's what supporters are saying:
General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Ranking Member Rep. Glenn GT' Thompson: Cattle producers nationwide have been hit hard by the pandemic and the supply chain disruptions that have followed, and they deserve our support for working around the clock to put food on the tables of American families. The PRICE Act will provide increased transparency and fairness, particularly for our small and family-owned ranches.
  The National Cattlemen's Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane: The Tyson fire in Holcomb, KS and the supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have brought the issues of price transparency in the cattle markets and beef processing capacity to a boiling point within our industry. This legislation is a significant step in the right direction as we continue to explore ways to support producers who have been impacted by two major black swan events, in an already volatile cattle market. We are grateful to Rep. Johnson and all the cosponsors for their bipartisan leadership in this space and will continue working alongside them to see these reforms enacted.
The United States Cattlemen's Association (USCA) Vice PresidentJustin Tupper: The provisions laid out in the PRICE Act provide a solid foundation with which to buildout a Livestock Title in the next farm bill. Both the 2018and 2014 Farm Bills failed to include a specific title for livestock, insteaddumping thoseprograms into the 'miscellaneous' bin.The sections included within the PRICE Act offer a solid base with which to begin constructing a clear, concise, and dedicated section within the framework of the largest agriculture-related legislationto bolster the livestock sector. 
Rep. Henry Cuellar (TX-28): America's cattle industry is facing an unprecedented situation as our country combats the coronavirus. This bipartisan legislation will help bring stability to the cattle market during these difficult times. As a senior member of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Appropriations, I am committed to fighting for our ranchers so they are able to recover through this crisis. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, including Congressman Johnson, to pass this important legislation.
Rep. Frank Lucas (OK-03): From natural disasters to the fire in Holcomb, Kansas to the current health pandemic gripping our nation, cattle producers across our country have faced significant disruption. My chief concern is the well-being of my neighbors and the cattlemen and women who have been working diligently during these troubling times to continue to provide high-quality beef for the American consumer. Today, I'm proud to join Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-AL) in introducing the PRICE Act, helping eliminate regulatory barriers for cattle ranchers and increasing the resources for these hard-working men and women. As we continue to weather economic and health conditions of the pandemic, Congress and USDA must provide solutions to ease the burdens currently felt by cattle ranchers.
Rep. Jim Hagedorn (MN-01): Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related events out of their control, livestock producers throughout America have been forced to the brink of insolvency and face severely depressed markets. The PRICE Act is an important step to ensuring the safety and stability of our agriculture workforce and food supply, eliminating barriers to entry for small processers, and increasing investment in the livestock industry. I'm proud to work with my Agriculture Committee colleagues on this critical piece of legislation.
Rep. Greg Gianforte (MT-AL): Montana producers need to get a fair price for their beef. I am proud to join my colleagues to introduce the PRICE Act and expand processing capacity, increase price reporting and transparency, and begin reviewing attempts at foreign investment in U.S. agriculture for threats to national security.
Rep. Rick Crawford (AR-01): Protein market disruptions in the last year have resulted in supply chain disruptions and empty grocery store shelves, causing panic across the country. The PRICE Act strikes the right balance between reduced regulatory barriers, appropriate market transparency, and support for small meat processors. Congress must continue the dialogue and ultimately, consider legislation that strengthens our supply chains and furthers national security.
Rep. Roger Marshall, M.D. (KS-01): The ongoing pandemic has exposed several weaknesses in our current cattle marketing and processing systems, causing financial hardship for cattle owners in Kansas and across the U.S. Since the beginning of this crisis, I have stood with our livestock owners and fought for assistance and regulatory relief that will provide the industry with the flexibility needed to respond. Now it is time to look forward and make updates to our system that will create greater price reporting and transparency, allow smaller processors to grow and take on additional processing capabilities as well as make much needed reforms to the Packers and Stockyards Act. I am optimistic that the legislation we are putting forward today will reform and improve the system to make it work for all livestock owners. 
Rep. Jason Smith (MO-08): Cattle producers are some of the hardest working men and women in the country, they deserve access to fair and transparent prices. Recent market disruptions have shown that greater accountability in our cattle markets is desperately needed. I continue to fully support investigation of the large beef packers for price manipulation and I'm proud to have helped author this legislation which will give our producers the tools they need to level the playing field and compete for fair prices.
Rep. Tom Emmer (MN-06): The strength of our food supply chain is a matter of national security, and during the Coronavirus outbreak, we have seen how a supply chain under stress impacts every American. I am dedicated to strengthening the supply chain to ensure our farmers, ranchers, and producers can do what they do best: feed and fuel the world. I thank Congressman Dusty Johnson and the rest of my colleagues for partnering to introduce this critical, bipartisan legislation that would provide needed improvements to livestock agriculture.
Rep. David Rouzer (NC-07): The livestock industry is facing unprecedented challenges which demand that we find solutions. This bill takes meaningful steps to help reduce disruptions to our livestock markets and processing systems by reducing regulatory costs and improving price transparency, along with other measures to support small meat processors.
###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/what-theyre-saying-johnson-leads-cattle-reform-bill-house,What They’re Saying:  Johnson Leads Cattle Reform Bill in the House,2020-10-05,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) introduced the PRICE Act, a bill that provides greater price reporting and transparency, comprehensive risk management solutions, bolsters small processor and producer-owned cooperative processing opportunities, and updates the Packer and Stockyards Act to create a cattle contract library.

Cosponsors of the bill include Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Mike Conaway (R-TX), and Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL), Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (R-PA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Frank Lucas (R-OK), Greg Gianforte (R-MT), David Rouzer (R-NC), Rick Crawford (R-AR), Jason Smith (R-MO), Tom Emmer (R-MN), and Jim Hagedorn (R-MN). Here's what supporters are saying:

General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Ranking Member Rep. Glenn ‘GT' Thompson: ""Cattle producers nationwide have been hit hard by the pandemic and the supply chain disruptions that have followed, and they deserve our support for working around the clock to put food on the tables of American families. The PRICE Act will provide increased transparency and fairness, particularly for our small and family-owned ranches.""

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane: ""The Tyson fire in Holcomb, KS and the supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have brought the issues of price transparency in the cattle markets and beef processing capacity to a boiling point within our industry. This legislation is a significant step in the right direction as we continue to explore ways to support producers who have been impacted by two major black swan events, in an already volatile cattle market. We are grateful to Rep. Johnson and all the cosponsors for their bipartisan leadership in this space and will continue working alongside them to see these reforms enacted.""

The United States Cattlemen's Association (USCA) Vice President Justin Tupper: ""The provisions laid out in the PRICE Act provide a solid foundation with which to build out a Livestock Title in the next farm bill. Both the 2018 and 2014 Farm Bills failed to include a specific title for livestock, instead dumping those programs into the 'miscellaneous' bin. The sections included within the PRICE Act offer a solid base with which to begin constructing a clear, concise, and dedicated section within the framework of the largest agriculture-related legislation to bolster the livestock sector.""

Rep. Henry Cuellar (TX-28): ""America's cattle industry is facing an unprecedented situation as our country combats the coronavirus. This bipartisan legislation will help bring stability to the cattle market during these difficult times. As a senior member of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Appropriations, I am committed to fighting for our ranchers so they are able to recover through this crisis. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, including Congressman Johnson, to pass this important legislation.""

Rep. Frank Lucas (OK-03): ""From natural disasters to the fire in Holcomb, Kansas to the current health pandemic gripping our nation, cattle producers across our country have faced significant disruption. My chief concern is the well-being of my neighbors and the cattlemen and women who have been working diligently during these troubling times to continue to provide high-quality beef for the American consumer. Today, I'm proud to join Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-AL) in introducing the PRICE Act, helping eliminate regulatory barriers for cattle ranchers and increasing the resources for these hard-working men and women. As we continue to weather economic and health conditions of the pandemic, Congress and USDA must provide solutions to ease the burdens currently felt by cattle ranchers.""

Rep. Jim Hagedorn (MN-01): ""Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related events out of their control, livestock producers throughout America have been forced to the brink of insolvency and face severely depressed markets. The PRICE Act is an important step to ensuring the safety and stability of our agriculture workforce and food supply, eliminating barriers to entry for small processers, and increasing investment in the livestock industry. I'm proud to work with my Agriculture Committee colleagues on this critical piece of legislation.""

Rep. Greg Gianforte (MT-AL): ""Montana producers need to get a fair price for their beef. I am proud to join my colleagues to introduce the PRICE Act and expand processing capacity, increase price reporting and transparency, and begin reviewing attempts at foreign investment in U.S. agriculture for threats to national security.""

Rep. Rick Crawford (AR-01): ""Protein market disruptions in the last year have resulted in supply chain disruptions and empty grocery store shelves, causing panic across the country. The PRICE Act strikes the right balance between reduced regulatory barriers, appropriate market transparency, and support for small meat processors. Congress must continue the dialogue and ultimately, consider legislation that strengthens our supply chains and furthers national security.""

Rep. Roger Marshall, M.D. (KS-01): ""The ongoing pandemic has exposed several weaknesses in our current cattle marketing and processing systems, causing financial hardship for cattle owners in Kansas and across the U.S. Since the beginning of this crisis, I have stood with our livestock owners and fought for assistance and regulatory relief that will provide the industry with the flexibility needed to respond. Now it is time to look forward and make updates to our system that will create greater price reporting and transparency, allow smaller processors to grow and take on additional processing capabilities as well as make much needed reforms to the Packers and Stockyards Act. I am optimistic that the legislation we are putting forward today will reform and improve the system to make it work for all livestock owners.""

Rep. Jason Smith (MO-08): ""Cattle producers are some of the hardest working men and women in the country, they deserve access to fair and transparent prices. Recent market disruptions have shown that greater accountability in our cattle markets is desperately needed. I continue to fully support investigation of the large beef packers for price manipulation and I'm proud to have helped author this legislation which will give our producers the tools they need to level the playing field and compete for fair prices.""

Rep. Tom Emmer (MN-06): ""The strength of our food supply chain is a matter of national security, and during the Coronavirus outbreak, we have seen how a supply chain under stress impacts every American. I am dedicated to strengthening the supply chain to ensure our farmers, ranchers, and producers can do what they do best: feed and fuel the world. I thank Congressman Dusty Johnson and the rest of my colleagues for partnering to introduce this critical, bipartisan legislation that would provide needed improvements to livestock agriculture.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-introduces-sweeping-cattle-reform-bill,Johnson Introduces Sweeping Cattle Reform Bill,2020-10-01,2020,2020-10,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) introduced the PRICE Act, a bill that will increase transparency in the cattle market, improve risk management, and support new and expanding meat processors. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the ""Box Beef & Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation Report, which identified a number of systemic issues in the cattle market. Johnson introduced the PRICE Act in response to the findings of this report.

The cattle market faced extreme volatility following the Tyson Holcomb plant fire in 2019 and again during the COVID-19 pandemic. The PRICE Act provides greater price reporting and transparency, comprehensive risk management solutions, bolsters small processor and producer-owned cooperative processing opportunities, and updates the Packer and Stockyards Act to create a cattle contract library.

""Cattle country is hurting and has not fully recovered,"" said Johnson. ""USDA laid out several areas where Congress can implement real solutions to improve the market – the PRICE Act is the answer to many of the issues our ranchers have faced for years. Our producers want a fair market and fair prices and that's what this bill delivers. Congress needs to deliver for cattle country.""

""Our nation's cattle producers are facing unprecedented market challenges due to supply chain disruptions created by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as last year's fire at the Holcomb, KS beef plant,"" said Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Mike Conaway. ""I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing the PRICE Act, which offers a suite of consensus proposals that will improve the marketplace.""

""Ranching and beef production have been fundamental to Florida's heritage and economy for hundreds of years,"" said Congressman Soto. ""Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has hit cattle country with one of the toughest challenges it will ever face. The bipartisan PRICE Act offers a solution to create cooperative opportunities for smaller processors bearing the brunt of supply disruption. Let's help Florida's cattle ranchers get the necessary help to make it through this crisis and continue to be an integral part of beef production across the country.""

""There is no disputing that the beef and livestock industry as a whole faced a challenging year. Following the fire at the Holcomb plant to the disruption caused by COVID-19, we have seen volatility like never before,"" said Scott VanderWal, a producer from Volga who serves as the South Dakota Farm Bureau President. ""No one solution is perfect, but a combination of common-sense, free-market changes can help. South Dakota Farm Bureau is pleased to see the introduction of the PRICE Act to promote greater price reporting and transparency in the market, diversification of processing and more comprehensive risk-management solutions.""

""SDCA thanks Representative Johnson for the comprehensive package of important issues addressed in the PRICE Act,"" said South Dakota Cattlemen's Association President Eric Jennings. ""From furthering livestock risk management education to addressing cover crops on Prevent Plant acres, the PRICE Act addresses many of the issues and challenges beef producers face that have been highlighted by the Covid-19 pandemic. In particular, we have long supported the ability to ship our state inspected beef products across state lines. It's also critical to find the right solution to livestock marketing issues, ​the proposed feasibility study ​for additional cattle processing facilities ​along with helping smaller beef processing plants increase their production are steps in the right direction. We greatly appreciate Representative Johnson's efforts on behalf of livestock producers.""

The PRICE Act is cosponsored by Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Mike Conaway (R-TX), and Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL), Glenn ""GT"" Thompson (R-PA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Frank Lucas (R-OK), Greg Gianforte (R-MT), David Rouzer (R-NC), Rick Crawford (R-AR), Jason Smith (R-MO), Tom Emmer (R-MN), and Jim Hagedorn (R-MN). It is also supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, South Dakota Cattlemen's Association, and National Cattlemen's Beef Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:34:36Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-legislation-honoring-ben-reifel-passes-house,Johnson Legislation Honoring Ben Reifel Passes the House,2020-09-30,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, legislation sponsored by U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) to designate the United States Postal Service building in Rosebud, South Dakota, as the Ben Reifel Post Office Building passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

Johnson introduced the legislation in May 2019 and spoke about Ben Reifel's legacy on the House floor. The legislation is supported by Ben Reifel's family, and it is the second Johnson sponsored tribal-related bill to pass the House this year.

""Ben Reifel is a role model,"" said Johnson. ""His service to Indian Country and to our nation deserves to be honored in South Dakota. I'm grateful my bill to rename the Rosebud Post Office passed the House of Representatives today.""

""Our family is excited to see this legislation pass the House. Naming the post office in Rosebud, our grandfather's home, is especially important. If he were alive, I think he would be especially touched by this effort,"" Lisa Moss, granddaughter of Ben Reifel.

Former Congressman Ben Reifel was a strong proponent of the Indian Civil Rights Act and fought to ensure that tribes received proper compensation for native land transfers. He was a leader in Congress on Indian Affairs and the first person of Lakota Sioux descent in Congress.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rounds-thune-johnson-army-corps-announces-major-step-toward-implementation,"Rounds, Thune, Johnson: Army Corps Announces Major Step Toward Implementation of Snowpack Monitoring System",2020-09-29,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Sens. Mike Rounds (R-S.D) and John Thune (R-S.D.) and Rep Dusty Johnson R-S.D.) today praised the news that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has awarded major contracts to four universities, including South Dakota State University (SDSU), to establish a network of stations to monitor snowpack and soil moisture throughout the plains area of the Upper Missouri River Basin. SDSU will receive a $12.8 million contract, and earlier today the first task issue was issued for the first 10 sites to be installed in South Dakota. The project is expected to be completed by 2025.

""Following the flooding events of 2011 and 2019, it's abundantly clear that we need more accurate weather monitoring throughout the Missouri Basin,"" said Rounds. ""Since coming to the Senate nearly six years ago, I've been working to implement a snowpack monitoring system, which will allow the Corps to make better, more accurate decisions with regard to river management. While there is more work ahead, today's announcement is a huge first step toward better river system management.""

""When it comes to weather related events, having the most accurate, up to date information is one of the best tools we have to help mitigate potentially devastating consequences,"" said Thune. ""As we approach the 10th anniversary of historic flooding of 2011 in the Missouri River Basin, this important system will build on our work to improve forecasting and information sharing in an effort to ensure reliable information is available to state and local governments and residents as flood mitigation efforts are implemented."" said Thune. ""I look forward to seeing the university's work on this important issue.""

""No South Dakotan can forget the devastating flooding on the Missouri in 2011,"" said Johnson. ""Accurate snowpack monitoring and preparation are key. I'm confident SDSU will utilize these tools to ensure boots on the ground have an accurate forecast so South Dakotans can be best prepared.""

In addition to SDSU, the University of Wyoming, the University of Montana, and North Dakota State University have been chosen to lead the implementation of the snowpack monitoring system. The four universities will receive awards totaling $48.2 million, over the next 5 years, which will enable the construction of 35 monitoring stations in 2021.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-conaway-lead-introduction-digital-commodity-legislation,Johnson & Conaway Lead Introduction of Digital Commodity Legislation,2020-09-24,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C — Today, House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member K. Michael Conaway and Rep. Dusty Johnson (SD) introduced the Digital Commodity Exchange Act of 2020, legislation that creates a single, opt-in national regulatory framework for digital commodity trading platforms under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

Cosponsors of the Digital Commodity Exchange Act (DCEA) include Congressmen Tom Emmer (MN-06), David Schweikert (AZ-06), Austin Scott (GA-08), and Darren Soto (FL-09). The text of the bill can be found here, a summary of the bill here, and Rep. Conaway's statement here. Here's what supporters are saying:

House Agriculture Committee Nutrition, Oversight, and Department Operations Subcommittee Ranking Member Dusty Johnson (SD-AL): ""America is an innovative nation. That innovation often outpaces the federal regulatory environment. The Digital Commodity Exchange Act ensures Americans can have confidence in emerging financial tools. This bill offers necessary protections without stifling the creativity of new market commodity tokens.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-tribal-school-bill-passes-house,Johnson Tribal School Bill Passes the House,2020-09-21,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, legislation sponsored by U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), which will divert millions back to tribal students' education, passed the U.S. House unanimously. The Tribal School Federal Insurance Parity Act (H.R. 895) makes tribal grant schools eligible for the Federal Employees Health Benefit (FEHB) program. Johnson, along with President of the Oglala Lakota Nation Education Coalition Cecelia Fire Thunder, testified on the bill in committee last year.

""For ten years, leaders have tried to fix this mistake, and I'm glad we got it done today. I'm grateful for the input tribal members gave me along the way,"" said Johnson. ""The Tribal School Federal Insurance Parity Act directs critical dollars back to the students. My bill creates much-needed parity among tribal schools, and I'm looking forward to seeing it pass the Senate.""

""This simple and clean legislative fix would directly benefit our tribal grant schools by allowing them to access lower cost health insurance options, resulting in significant overall savings. Not only would this fix benefits for more than 500 employees working at tribal grant schools on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, it would also free up millions of dollars to be used to better the education for thousands of tribal students at these schools. Tribal grant schools should not be treated differently than other tribal schools and I'm glad the House has acted. I urge the House and Senate to work together to get this bill across the finish line,"" said Cecelia Fire Thunder, President, Oglala Lakota Nation Education Consortium.

Rep. Johnson speaks on the U.S. House floor in support of H.R. 895. Click here or above to view his full remarks.

This legislation would amend Section 409 of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to clarify that tribal grant schools are eligible to participate in the FEHB program and the Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) program.

In 2010, Congress reauthorized the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. A provision was included in Section 409 of this law that allows tribes and tribal organizations, including schools, operating programs through P.L. 93-638 contracts to be eligible for insurance coverage for their employees through the FEHB program and the FEGLI program. This provision did not explicitly mention P.L. 100-297 and, therefore, the Office of Personnel Management, in consultation with the Department of the Interior and the Department of Health and Human Services, determined that tribal grant schools are ineligible to purchase insurance coverage for their employees through FEHB and FEGLI.

The Tribal School Federal Insurance Parity Act would improve the recruitment and retention of professional educators in tribal and rural communities and would allow tribal schools to spend less on health care and more on their students. Tribal grant schools would still be required to pay the government's contribution toward the insurance premiums and the employees would be responsible for the remaining balance. This bill will not cost the taxpayer additional dollars.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-statement-cfap-announcement,Johnson Statement on CFAP Announcement,2020-09-18,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) made a statement following President Trump's announcement that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide $14 billion for agriculture producers still struggling from COVID-19 supply chain disruption. The second round of Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP 2) will begin September 21 and run through December 11, 2020.

""Throughout the CARES Act negotiations, rural America fought hard to be included in COVID-19 relief,"" said Johnson. ""The impact of the pandemic impacted markets differently as we witnessed supply chain disruptions, and I'm grateful USDA acted quickly to address these issues. Secretary Perdue has addressed many concerns raised by South Dakotans in this second round of CFAP, particularly for livestock producers. As USDA continues to help our producers, Congress should uphold our end of the bargain and pass an end of year bill that continues to replenish the Commodity Credit Corporation. We can't let our Farm Bill programs be disrupted.""

CFAP 2.0 includes several of Johnson's priorities including:

-Wool, bison, pheasants, goats, and other specialty livestock are now eligible for assistance.

-Additional assistance for cattle producers. Producers are eligible for $55 per head on inventory from April 16 – August 31.

-Additional assistance for pork producers. Producers are eligible for $23 per head on inventory from April 16 – August 31.

-Additional assistance for sheep producers. Producers are eligible for $27 per head on inventory from April 16 – August 31.

-Assistance for row-crops

oEligible acres of the crop multiplied by a rate of $15 per acre; OR

oEligible acres of the crop multiplied by a nationwide crop marketing percentage, multiplied by a crop-specific payment rate, and then by the producer's weighted 2020 Actual Production History (APH) approved yield.

For full details of the program, click here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=430B77DA-74C2-4817-976B-4CA131E79B5A,A Reason for Gratitude in Tough Times,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"South Dakota veterans and the Hot Springs community are currently celebrating the VA's announcement that it has begun the process of rescinding the order to close the Hot Springs VA facility. This was a hard-fought victory in a battle that we weren't always sure we would win. It started almost a decade ago, in 2011, when the Obama administration announced plans to realign  read, close  the Hot Springs VA facility. I was well aware of what the Hot Springs facility means to South Dakota veterans and to the entire Hot Springs community, and I determined that there wasn't going to be a closure if I could help it.
I knew that closing the Hot Springs facility would put accessible care out of the reach of a lot of rural and tribal veterans. Not only rural and tribal South Dakota veterans, but rural and tribal veterans from neighboring Wyoming and Nebraska who depend on the Hot Springs facility for care. Traveling to Rapid City for care, as the VA proposed, would be a real hardship, if not an impossibility, for many of these veterans.
I also strongly disagreed with moving not only medical care but the vital post-traumatic stress disorder program from Hot Springs to Rapid City. Not only would this put this program out of the reach of some veterans, I believed it was also a mistake to remove a tremendously effective program from the place where it has been so successful and try to reconstitute it elsewhere. So I got to work in Congress, along with other members of the South Dakota delegation.
My first priority was simply trying to get Hot Springs' veterans a hearing with the VA. In 2016, after years of trying, we persuaded then-VA secretary Bob McDonald to visit Hot Springs. Unfortunately, the visit didn't work, and the next year the secretary signed an order finalizing the decision to close the majority of the facility.But the battle wasn't over.
In 2014, I had succeeded in attaching a measure to appropriations legislation prohibiting the closure of the Hot Springs facility until a national VA realignment strategy was introduced. Each year I've managed to renew that measure. And in March of this year, we got another chance to persuade the VA. After I learned that VA Secretary Robert Wilkie would be visiting Hot Springs in March, I organized a letter with the rest of the South Dakota delegation strongly urging the secretary to make time to sit down with Hot Springs veterans and other stakeholders and listen to their concerns about the planned closure.
To our great gratitude, the secretary agreed. And days after meeting with the veterans, the secretary announced that the VA would be rescinding its decision and that Hot Springs would remain open. That meeting was the key.
I worked hard in Congress  along with other members of the South Dakota delegation  to keep the Hot Springs facility open, but the battle would never have succeeded without the passion of Hot Springs veterans and the Hot Springs community, which rallied in support of the facility. Meeting with these veterans and other stakeholders and hearing their thoughts and stories played a major role in Secretary Wilkie's decision.
2020 has been a tough year. But even in tough times, good things happen. The VA's announcement that it has begun the process of rescinding its order to close the Hot Springs facility has given a lot of us reason for gratitude. I'm thankful to Secretary Wilkie for taking a real look at South Dakota veterans' concerns and reversing the VA's decision to close the facility. I look forward to celebrating with South Dakota veterans the next time I'm in Hot Springs  or as a lot of us know it, the Veterans' Town.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=76492E3E-8794-4112-8690-68C1A3F6C2DE,Thune: Congress Must Step Up and Advocate for Americas Producers,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), a longtime member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today discussed the importance of prioritizing farmers and ranchers across America, especially considering the additional challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thune, along with farm-state senators, including Sen. John Hoeven (R-N.D.), continue to advocate for full funding of the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). The CCC ensures that USDA has the resources it needs to provide assistance to producers through farm programs.
Excerpts of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, while most sectors of our economy were thriving before the coronavirus pandemic hit, farmers and ranchers were struggling.
Low prices, extended trade disputes, and natural disasters had meant a tough few years for agriculture producers even before the arrival of the coronavirus.
Yesterday, I held virtual meetings with South Dakota farmers and ranchers and heard firsthand about the challenges they are facing because of the pandemic.
Mr. President, agriculture is the lifeblood of my home state of South Dakota, and making sure our ag producers have what they need to keep feeding our nation  and the world  is one of my top priorities here in Washington.
During debate on the CARES Act  our largest coronavirus relief bill to date  I fought to make sure that we included relief for farmers and ranchers.
The final bill included $14 billion for the Commodity Credit Corporation, plus an additional $9.5 billion in emergency support to allow the Department of Agriculture to provide income and price support for farmers and ranchers.
USDA has been putting these resources to work to provide assistance to producers in South Dakota and across the country who were affected by the pandemic, and they have been a lifeline to many farmers.
But more needs to be done to support our nation's agriculture industry.
And part of doing that is funding the Commodity Credit Corporation in the continuing resolution.
The Commodity Credit Corporation ensures that USDA has the resources it needs to provide assistance through farm programs, including the programs included in the bipartisan 2018 farm bill.
Commodity programs, like Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) and marketing assistance loans.
Dairy programs, like Dairy Margin Coverage.
Disaster programs, like the Livestock Forage Disaster Program and the Livestock Indemnity Program.
These programs are a critical part of farmers and ranchers' safety net, and we need to ensure that they are fully funded.
Mr. President, later this morning my colleague Senator Hoeven will be hosting a colloquy to draw attention to the need to get USDA the resources it requires to help our agriculture producers weather this crisis.
I appreciate Senator Hoeven's work to highlight this issue, and I hope my Democrat colleagues will hear agriculture producers' concerns.
I will continue to do everything I can to help farmers and ranchers through the challenges they're facing.
And I urge my Democrat colleagues to work with Republicans to make sure USDA has the resources it needs to support producers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=88DBA5FD-9103-4E6F-9287-322BF1D1544A,"Wicker, Thune, Fischer, Blackburn Introduce Consumer Data Privacy Legislation",2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, Deb. Fischer, R-Neb., chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, and Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., today introduced the Setting an American Framework to Ensure Data Access, Transparency, and Accountability (SAFE DATA) Act. The legislation would provide Americans with more choice and control over their data and direct businesses to be more transparent and accountable for their data practices. The bill would also enhance the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) authority and provide additional resources to enforce the Act.
As COVID-19 increases activity online and opportunities to misuse personal data continue to surge, it is time to pass a uniform, national privacy law, said Wicker. More than ever, we need to stop bad actors and restore consumers' trust in the internet marketplace. Today I am introducing a bill that would provide all Americans with baseline protections and more transparency, choice, and control over their data. It would also strengthen the FTC's ability to hold businesses accountable when using data for nefarious purposes. I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation so that we can instill confidence in consumers and in the long-term sustainability of our digital economy.
Today's introduction of the SAFE DATA Act is the right step toward a more comprehensive online transparency and reform effort, and, importantly, the legislation sets a single national data privacy standard for consumers,said Thune.I'm glad the broader legislation includes my Filter Bubble Transparency Act, legislation that would make it easier for internet platform users to understand the potential manipulation that exists with secret online algorithms. Thanks to Chairman Wicker for his action on this issue, and I look forward to bringing more attention to this bill at next week's Commerce Committee hearing.
As COVID-19 has shifted social and economic activitiesto the internet, it is more important than ever thatallAmericans have transparency and control regarding their personal data, said Fischer. I am proud to cosponsor this legislation, which would create a comprehensive federal data privacy frameworkthat restores consumer trust and sets guardrails for responsible data use.The bill also includes my bipartisan DETOUR Act with Senator Warner to protect consumers against deceptive user interfacesonlineknown as dark patterns.'
Americans need to be able to trust that their personal information and presence online, which I call the Virtual You,' will be protected, said Blackburn. I am pleased that the legislation we are introducing today includes key tenets of my BROWSER Act, requiring Big Tech companies to provide users with clear notice of their privacy policies and the ability to opt-in to the collection of sensitive information and to opt-out of the collection of non-sensitive information. The Federal Trade Commission is the right entity to enforce these rules and ensures we have a consistent national law regarding online privacy. The SAFE DATA Act is an important next step in giving users more control over their data and strengthening the FTC's ability to respond to harmful changes in technology.
The SAFE DATA Act would: 
Provide Americans with more choice and control over their data by:
 
Requiring businesses to allow consumers to access, correct, delete, or port their data;
Prohibiting businesses from processing or transferring consumers' sensitive data without their consent;
Prohibiting businesses from denying consumers products or services for exercising their privacy rights;
Minimizing the amount of consumer data businesses can collect, process, and retain;
Limiting secondary uses of consumer data without their consent;
Establishing uniform data protections across the country enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and state attorneys general;
 
Direct businesses to be more transparent and accountable for their data practices by: 
 
Requiring businesses to disclose a privacy policy to consumers detailing their data collection, processing, and transfer activities, and notify consumers of any material changes to those activities;
Requiring businesses to conduct privacy impact assessments of data processing activities that may present a heightened risk of harm to consumers;
Requiring businesses to secure consumers' data and maintain internal controls and reporting structures to assess data privacy risks to consumers; and
Requiring online platforms to be transparent about their use of secret algorithms.
 
Strengthen the FTC's ability to respond to potentially harmful changes in technology and hold businesses accountable for misusing consumers' data by: 
 
Authorizing the FTC to develop new rules to expand categories of sensitive data;
Requiring the FTC to share any information with the appropriate Executive or State agency if it obtains information that a business has processed or transferred consumer data in a way that violates Federal anti-discrimination laws;
Requiring the FTC to maintain a data broker registry;
Expanding the FTC's authority to oversee the data use practices of common carriers and nonprofit organizations; and
Restoring the FTC's authority to obtain monetary remedies for consumers.
 

Click here to read the bill.

In November 2019, the Commerce Committee released astaff draftof the SAFE DATA Act, originally entitled the United States Consumer Data Privacy Act. Since its release, the introduced bill has been updated to clarify definitions, expand the scope of data that is covered under the bill, and protect consumers from being manipulated by algorithms used by online platforms. The bill alsowouldrestorethe FTC's ability to obtain monetary remedies for consumers, which is an issue the agency has asked Congress to address.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=97581ED1-9334-44E4-A0DC-3E8B54D70568,Delegation Introduces Bill to Allow State to Conduct Clean-Up Effort at Gilt Edge Mine,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) today introduced the Gilt Edge Mine Conveyance Act, legislation that would authorize the state of South Dakota to purchase approximately 266 acres of U.S. Forest Service land in Lawrence County. The land transfer authorized bythis legislation would allow the state to conduct a clean-up effort within the boundary of the Gilt Edge Mine superfund site once the Environmental Protection Agency completes its clean-up actions.
The Gilt Edge Mine Conveyance Act would ensure the state of South Dakota is able to manage an effective clean-up at the mine, said Thune, Rounds, and Johnson. We appreciate the state's leadership on this effort and would like to thank the state for working with us on this common-sense legislation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/delegation-introduces-bill-allow-state-conduct-clean-effort-gilt-edge-mine,Delegation Introduces Bill to Allow State to Conduct Clean-Up Effort at Gilt Edge Mine,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) today introduced the Gilt Edge Mine Conveyance Act, legislation that would authorize the state of South Dakota to purchase approximately 266 acres of U.S. Forest Service land in Lawrence County. The land transfer authorized by this legislation would allow the state to conduct a clean-up effort within the boundary of the Gilt Edge Mine superfund site once the Environmental Protection Agency completes its clean-up actions.

""The Gilt Edge Mine Conveyance Act would ensure the state of South Dakota is able to manage an effective clean-up at the mine,"" said Thune, Rounds, and Johnson. ""We appreciate the state's leadership on this effort and would like to thank the state for working with us on this common-sense legislation.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-langevin-cicilline-introduce-stopgap-measure-continue-transportation,"Johnson, Langevin, Cicilline, Introduce Stopgap Measure to Continue Transportation Projects During the Pandemic",2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressmen Jim Langevin (D-RI), David Cicilline (D-RI), and Dusty Johnson (R-SD), have introduced the Highways Coronavirus Relief Act, bipartisan legislation to temporarily increase the amount the federal government contributes to federal highway projects. The bill aims to ensure states, which generally pay for a portion of projects backed by the federal highway trust fund, can continue major infrastructure improvements as they attempt to deal with budget shortfalls caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

""Robust federal infrastructure investments help revitalize the economy and improve quality of life,"" said Langevin. ""As states continue to face steep fiscal challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we must keep transportation projects moving forward to support good-paying jobs for local workers and build the foundation for Rhode Island's future. This legislation will provide the federal resources states need to keep critical construction activities going for the immediate future as we continue to press for broader aid for states.""

""Improving and modernizing our infrastructure is a critical priority,"" said Cicilline. ""This bill will help create jobs in our state. I am proud to co-sponsor it and to continue working to rebuild our roads, bridges, and schools.""

""Prior to COVID-19 our nation's infrastructure wasn't in great shape,"" said Johnson. ""With state government's seeing less revenue because of the pandemic that means fewer dollars for necessary infrastructure projects. We can't allow our state highways and roads to get further behind – this legislation would help us stay on top of our nation's infrastructure projects. I'm proud to help lead this effort along with Representative Langevin.""

Rhode Island's state share of federal formula grant transportation projects generally amounts to $45 million a year. By temporarily removing the requirement for states to provide matching funds for active construction projects, Rhode Island and other states will be able to continue their infrastructure improvements despite the fiscal challenges brought on by the pandemic. Highway improvements encompass a range of projects from the replacement, repair and painting of bridges, to road paving, maintenance, and other road safety enhancements and operational upgrades.

""RIDOT applauds the vision this bill shows and its understanding of the precarious nature of our funding situation,"" said Rhode Island Department of Transportation Director Peter Alviti. ""Right now, RIDOT faces a future where it may not be able to meet the state match required for millions of federal dollars the department has attracted in both discretionary and formula funds. This bill will provide the vital resources we need to continuing rebuilding our bridges and keep many Rhode Islanders employed through this crisis.""

Upon enactment, the legislation would apply to existing and unliquidated formula grant obligations and those made after its enactment through September 30, 2021.

Full text of bill.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/problem-solvers-caucus-unveils-march-common-ground-covid-stimulus-framework,PROBLEM SOLVERS CAUCUS UNVEILS “MARCH TO COMMON GROUND” COVID STIMULUS FRAMEWORK,2020-09-17,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, Tuesday, September 15, 2020, the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus – 25 Democrats and 25 Republicans -- unveiled its ""March To Common Ground"" framework to help break the gridlock on the latest COVID-19 relief package and encourage negotiators to get back to the table.

The 50-member bipartisan Caucus, developed and came together in support of the framework after extensive listening to constituents and outreach to stakeholders over the past six weeks.

The package addresses key areas of need, including COVID-19 testing, unemployment insurance, direct stimulus, worker and liability protection, small business and non-profit support, food security, schools and child care, housing, election support, and state and local aid.

In light of the urgent needs facing millions of Americans, families, and small businesses, the framework is designed for a six month horizon and through the next inauguration, except for state and local funding which extends for a full year.

Depending on the severity of the pandemic and if a successful vaccination program is adopted by March, 2021, a system of automatic ""boosters"" are designed to incrementally increase the amount of relief to individuals and families. Conversely, a system of ""reducers"" will decrease the total cost of the package.

The framework calls for both new stimulus money and the reallocation of previously appropriated ""CARES Act"" funding, and allocates resources to the following key categories:

Testing & Healthcare ($100B)

Direct Assistance to Individuals & Families ($316B)

Unemployment Assistance ($120B)

Small Business & Non-profit Support ($290B

School & Child Care ($145B)

State & Local Aid ($500.3B)

Election Support ($400B)

Broadband, Agriculture, USPS, & Census ($52B)

Worker & Liability Protections

Automatic Boosters & Reducers

The full framework can found here.

""Americans deserve a functioning Congress that can rise to the challenge and deliver the relief they need,"" said PSC Co-Chair Tom Reed. ""Our framework reflects months of bipartisan consensus-building on the actions the federal government can take to help working families and local communities across the country as they navigate the impacts of COVID-19. We are hopeful this package will help bring lead negotiations back to the table as we try to solve this problem for the American people.""

""What brings us together — 25 Democrats and 25 Republicans — is our shared goal of finding a pragmatic solution — a bipartisan path forward — to help get negotiators to return to the table,"" said PSC Co-Chair Josh Gottheimer. ""Our March to Common Ground package does just that — it lays out a common sense framework to get help and resources out to American families and businesses.

""Our group put aside brinksmanship and political games,"" said Rep. Dusty Johnson, ""Once we focused on what was good for the country, it didn't take us long to find common ground. This is how Congress is supposed to work.""

""Today, my 25 Democrat and 25 Republican colleagues of the Problem Solvers Caucus are introducing a bipartisan, COVID relief framework to reignite negotiations and help our country through these difficult days,"" said Rep. Dean Phillips. ""Months of inaction have left too many at the precipice, and principle must overcome politics. Co-leading our working group with Rep. Dusty Johnson has been an inspirational lesson in possibility. A shared mission to support our country and compassion for people transcended divisions in Congress, and is a reminder that unity and trust can overcome anything. Even politics. We're not the flashiest members of Congress, but we sit at the table, listen to one another, engage in respectful debate and deliberation, and accomplish good work for our country behind the scenes. Congress can be fixed. One friendship at a time.""

""American families still need help, and Congress needs to step up,"" said Rep. Fred Upton. ""This framework is something both parties can get behind, would be signed by the President, and would deliver immediate help to those in the most need.""

""Our communities cannot wait any longer while Washington continues to play partisan games,"" said Rep. Kendra Horn. ""Oklahoma businesses are closing and our families are struggling to make ends meet. Today's March to Common Ground bipartisan framework would deliver relief in a timely, targeted and transparent way. It's time to put politics aside and do what's right. The Problem Solvers are showing that we can work across the aisle. We can solve this together.""

""During a moment of crisis, our mission in Washington should be clear: help families stay safe and weather the storm of COVID-19,"" said Rep. Elisa Slotkin. ""But unfortunately, amidst election season, politics has distorted that mission. The Problem Solvers Caucus has been quietly working on the outlines of another emergency COVID package, in the hopes that our framework can kick-start negotiations between the House, the Senate, and the White House. And I'm proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle today as we unveil that framework. Importantly: no deal is perfect. But this proposal can and should serve as a serious start of negotiations. And I'm urging leadership in the House, Senate and White House to rise to the moment and get back to negotiating. We have to continue working across the aisle, regardless of politics, to get help to the people who need it right now. That is what is expected of us, and what the moment demands.""

""I'm proud to join members of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus to announce a new COVID-19 relief bill, developed and supported by our membership, consisting of 25 Democrats and 25 Republicans,"" said Rep. John Katko. ""For too long, partisanship and posturing have stood in the way of substantive negotiations to address the sustained impact of the pandemic on our country. Our package contains measures that both sides agree on, including additional assistance for state and local governments, and resources for COVID testing, unemployment support, stimulus checks, schools & child care, and PPP. There's more that we agree on than disagree on. I hope this bill will inspire negotiators to set politics aside, and act as a blueprint to advance discussions.""

""I've heard from families that are hurting, businesses that are struggling, and mayors and superintendents who are facing steep cuts to essential services,"" said Rep. Anthony Brindisi. ""These are real problems and we cannot wait any longer for Washington to act. With this bipartisan framework, the Problem Solvers and I are cutting through the politics to demand action and aid for our communities. This plan is a thoughtful, comprehensive framework and most importantly, it has support from Democrats and Republicans in a divided Washington. Let's get this done.""

""Our constituents are clamoring for Democrats and Republicans to work together to battle the COVID pandemic, to secure our public health and support those in need,"" said Rep. Tom Suozzi. ""Everyone knows Senate leadership has refused to negotiate. Our bipartisan proposal helps people, blunts the advance of the virus and provides the necessary funding for our schools, and our state and local governments. We hope this will inspire all parties to come back to the table.""

""What we're showing today is a deal is not only possible, but more importantly, a deal must be possible because failure is not an option,"" Rep. Max Rose said. ""This isn't a game. This isn't a red state or a blue state issue. This is an American issue and we must come together as Americans and get the job done: to give our state and local governments the aid they need to ensure our cops, firefighters, EMS, teachers and essential workers aren't laid off; to provide our struggling businesses the lifeline they need to stay in business and keep employees on the payroll. We must come together to do the job we all know needs to be done.""

""With thousands of South Carolinians still out of work, small businesses struggling to keep the lights on, and state and local governments fiscally exhausted, it is long past time Congress came together to negotiate another COVID-19 relief package,"" said Rep. Joe Cunningham. ""This bipartisan framework would allocate the necessary funding for testing, relief for working families, unemployed Americans, and small businesses, and much-needed aid for state and local governments. Americans are counting on their elected officials and so failure is not an option.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=113BC963-06AE-4BEA-8009-93A4C3E4CE63,"Thune, Moran, Young Bill to Update E-Sign Clears Key Senate Hurdle",2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.) today applauded the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, which has jurisdiction over technology and consumer protection, for passing their E-SIGN Modernization Act, legislation that would streamline how consumers consent to receiving electronic documents like bank statements, account information, and contracts.The Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-SIGN) became law in 2000 and provides a framework for how transactions involved in interstate or foreign commerce can be completed using electronic signatures and electronic documents.
Technology has come a long ways since E-SIGN became law 20 years ago, so it only makes sense that we update this legislation to adjust to the new normal, said Thune. Today's passage in the Commerce Committee brings this bill one step closer to reality  making it easier for consumers to receive electronic documents.
Eliminating unnecessary and harmful rules that do not reflect the capabilities of modern technology while improving consumers' abilities to participate in online commerce has been a significant priority of mine as Chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, said Moran. This legislation is a timely update as the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the importance of streamlining online banking processes for all Americans.
As the coronavirus pandemic continues, it's time we help more people easily access their bank information from a computer or other electronic device,said Young.I'm encouraged by today's passage of theE-SIGN Modernization Actin the Commerce Committeeas we work to get this bill over the finish line so that Americans can access critical documents and bank statements electronically.
E-SIGN currently requires consumers to reasonably demonstrate that they can access documents electronically before they can receive an electronic version, which is an outdated requirement that is no longer necessary given advancements in technology.The E-SIGN Modernization Act would remove this requirement, so once a consumer is provided with disclosure information and consents to receiving documents electronically, he or she can obtain them through those means.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=2FB37599-3DB4-43E8-86A9-BAAA344E91FC,Thune: Congress Cannot Ignore the Effect Washington Spending Has on Future Generations,2020-09-16,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed the soaring U.S. national debt and the effect it could have on future economic growth. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), next year, America's debt will be greater than its gross domestic product (GDP) and rise to 107 percent in 2023, the highest percentage in the nation's history. Thune expressed his frustration with his Democratic colleagues and their general lack of concern regarding the amount of money that would be spent to advance their own political agendas  like the Green New Deal.

Excerpts of Thune's remarks below:

Mr. President, at the beginning of September the Congressional Budget Office issued its latest budget outlook.
The news wasn't good.
CBO announced that next year, our country's debt is projected to exceed the amount of our gross domestic product. 
In other words, the size of our debt will be greater than the size of our economy.
That is a very bad position to be in.
Countries with that kind of debt-to-GDP ratio face time-sensitive decisions if they want to avert an all-out economic crisis. Greece is just one recent example.
We all know the kind of economic devastation, and accompanying turmoil, that Greece has experienced in recent years.
Now, as the United States, we can probably hang on a little longer than most other countries before entering a full-blown debt crisis.
And it's helpful that our economy was surging before being waylaid by the onset of the coronavirus.
But even we can't hang on forever.
Sooner or later, if we don't address the size of our soaring debt, we're going to have a problem.
A lot of problems, in fact.
Now, Mr. President, that is not something most of my colleagues across the aisle want to hear.
They'd like to spend as much as they want, whenever they want, on whatever new government program they've come up with.
And they imply that Republicans are miserly for not wanting to join them.
Republicans, Democrats imply (or say), just don't care about the ordinary Americans who would supposedly benefit from Democrats' spending.
In fact, Mr. President, the opposite is true.
In the face of the pandemic, Republicans have been willing to spend huge sums to help our fellow Americans weather this crisis.
And Republicans are worried about our spending and our debt precisely because we care deeply about ordinary Americans.
We know what the consequences of unchecked debt and spending can be, and we want to protect Americans from those consequences.
To start with, the larger our debt grows, the more interest we're likely to have to pay.
And we're already paying a lot.
Right now, we're paying roughly $484 billion a year in interest on our debt.
That's a substantial chunk of our yearly budget
And that's money that could otherwise be going to other priorities.
And the problem is only snowballing.
By 2029, the yearly interest on our debt is projected to reach $807 billion, according to one estimate.
That's going to eat up a lot of money that could otherwise be spent on important investments.
Health care, veterans, infrastructure, defense, seniors, education  we'd have a lot more money to devote to those priorities if we weren't paying hundreds of billions in interest each year on our debt.
Then there are the economic consequences of a huge debt.
The economy will struggle.
Unemployment will grow.
Businesses will create fewer jobs  if they create jobs at all.
Wages and benefits will likely stagnate.
The stock market will struggle.
Mr. President, we've had to borrow a lot of money this year to meet the coronavirus crisis.
And there's no doubt it's money we needed to borrow.
That happens sometimes during a crisis.
But we need to be very aware of the fact that we've driven up our deficit by $3.3 trillion just this fiscal year  further increasing our nation's debt.
And we need to be very careful about any additional borrowing and ensure that we're only borrowing what's absolutely necessary.
Republicans have caught a lot of flak from Democrats for not being willing to use the coronavirus as an excuse for unchecked government spending  including for NON-coronavirus-related measures.
But we've made a priority of scrutinizing additional spending because we don't want to get our country out of one economic crisis only to plunge it into another.
Unfortunately, that's a lesson that's lost on my Democrat colleagues.
We think the debt is bad now  and it is.
But it's nothing like what our debt will look like if Democrats take Congress and the White House in November and start putting some of their bigger spending plans into effect.
Plans like Medicare for All, which would cost, at a conservative estimate, $32 trillion over 10 years.
Or the Green New Deal, Democrats' $93 trillion boondoggle.
That's right  you didn't mishear. 
The Green New Deal is estimated to cost up to $93 trillion over 10 years. 
To put that in perspective, the size of the entire federal budget in 2019 was $4.4 trillion  or substantially less than the cost of one year of the Green New Deal.
Now, Mr. President, you might think a pie-in-the-sky fantasy like the Green New Deal would have been abandoned by Democrats by now.
But you'd be wrong.
More than a year after its introduction, it's apparently still going strong.
Yesterday I spoke on the floor about Democrats' threat to eliminate the legislative filibuster in the Senate  the Senate rule that helps ensure that bills that come before the Senate require bipartisan cooperation.
Well, shortly before I spoke, the senator from Massachusetts who introduced the Green New Deal resolution in the Senate appeared on NPR, where he was asked whether he thought there were any parts of the Green New Deal that could attract bipartisan support.
The senator's response?
The whole thing needs to be enacted  and if Republicans don't allow that to happen, Democrats should change the Senate rules to eliminate the legislative filibuster.
So apparently Democrats aren't willing to even moderate their proposal.
If the senator from Massachusetts has his way, Democrats will shove that entire $93 trillion down the throats of the American people.
And I guess the American people will just have to survive the resulting debt crisis.
Now, Mr. President, when you ask about the price tag for Democrats' socialist fantasies, Democrats make noise about paying for it somehow.
We'll tax the rich, they say.
The rich aren't paying their fair share.
The problem, of course, is that increasing taxes on the rich isn't going to pay for these proposals.
You could tax not only the rich but a good portion of the middle class at rates near 100 percent and not come anywhere close to getting $93 trillion.
There is in fact no way to pay for these proposals.
They will be financed by enormous additions to our national debt, and ordinary Americans will suffer the consequences.
A shrinking economy.
Fewer jobs.
Lost jobs.
Lower wages.
Lack of opportunity.
And more.
Mr. President, I hope we'll take action on our debt before it's too late.
One thing we have to consider is how to shore up and protect Social Security and Medicare, which are currently the main drivers of our national debt.
Thanks to an aging Baby Boomer population, these programs are under a great deal of strain.
My colleague from Utah, Senator Romney, recently introduced legislation  the TRUST Act  to begin to address these endangered trust funds and start to rein in our national debt.
Bipartisan legislation like this would be a good start to preventing our country from facing an economic crisis in the coming decades.
The Republican senators sponsoring the legislation were joined by a handful of Democrats, which gives me hope that perhaps not all my Democrat colleagues are determined to explode our national debt with their socialist fantasies.
Unfortunately, too many Democrats  including Democrats' vice presidential candidate  are open to bankrupting Americans with the Green New Deal and other plans.
I hope they won't have the chance to implement their legislation.
Because our economy  and the American people  might never recover from the consequences.
Mr. President, I yield the floor.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=CE99B9E1-0372-4D67-9E73-73E8F9E65153,"Blackburn, Thune Move to Expand TSA PreCheck Enrollment Options for Rural Americans",2020-09-15,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		Today, Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Thune (R-S.D.) introduced the Mobile Enrollment Act to improve Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck services, including by enabling Americans in rural communities to enroll online, rather than making an unnecessary trip to an enrollment-friendly airport during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This corrective legislation will get the TSA back on track to provide secure, user-friendly mobile enrollment options for rural Americans. It will also create opportunities for public and private entities to join forces in validating identity through mobile biometric capture, said Senator Blackburn. Additionally, this legislation will create new high-skilled engineering jobs in Franklin. The federal government needs to continue to adapt to the needs of the pandemic, and prioritizing access to government resources for rural Tennesseans will continue to be at the top of my list.
Currently, residents of rural states like South Dakota are at a disadvantage when it comes to signing up for TSA PreCheck, since the state's only enrollment center is located in Sioux Falls, said Senator Thune. Creating a secure, fully mobile enrollment process greatly expands the accessibility of PreCheck for all Americans, making the traveling experience a little easier for the flying public.

The Mobile Enrollment Act will:
 
Force TSA to follow Congressional intent,
Ensure there is a multi-vendor secure end-to-end mobile enrollment solution that will allow citizens in rural communities' choice and ease of access for PreCheck enrollment, and
Fast-track implementation of mobile biometric capture which is a critical tool in the advancement of digital government services.
 
   IDEMIA, the current Universal Enrollment Service contract holder which conducts TSA's PreCheck and other vetting programs, employs 300 people in Franklin, Tennessee.
Senator Blackburn's continued leadership and advocacy of this legislation helps to ensure continued job growth in Tennessee, while advancing TSA's use of new and emerging technologies, said Ed Casey, CEO, IDEMIA Identity & Security North America. I would also like to thank Senator Thune for his continued advocacy and leadership to ensure that our rural communities can easily enroll in PreCheck.This legislation is an important next step in making that vision a reality.
In 2018, Congress passed the TSA Modernization Act, which included a provision authored by then-Commerce Chairman Thune, requiring TSA to expand the PreCheck program by awarding contracts to at least two additional vendors that would provide either secure end-to-end mobile enrollment or a biographic vetting enrollment alternative to in-person fingerprints for a FBI Criminal History Records Check. The intent of this provision was to force TSA to create an easy enrollment option for people who live in rural communities.
In January 2020, the TSA Administrator issued a decision that biographic vetting was not equivalent to an FBI CHRC. The Administrator then went on to enter into agreements with three vendors for PreCheck expansion, pursuant to the requirements of the legislation. However, none of these agreements include secure mobile end-to-end enrollment because TSA has not taken any steps to determine how it can work with the FBI to create a secure end-to-end mobile enrollment option.
The legislation will compel TSA to follow Congressional intent, ensure there is a multi-vendor secure end-to-end mobile enrollment solution that will allow citizens in rural communities' choice and ease of access for PreCheck enrollment, and fast-track implementation of mobile biometric capture which is a critical tool in the advancement of digital government services.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=DBFE864A-563A-4CAA-B409-729C76325869,Thune: Democrats Threaten to Change 200-Year-Old Senate Practice for Political Gain,2020-09-15,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today expressed his disappointment in the idea that Democrats would consider changing the Senate's 200-year-old practice on the legislative filibuster. The filibuster is one of the most prominent rules that distinguishes the Senate from the House of Representatives and requires the consensus of at least 60 senators before the body can vote on a contentious bill. Thune discussed several recent examples of Senate Democrats using the legislative filibuster this year alone when it suited their needs as the minority party.

Excerpts of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, on Friday NBC News reported, and I quote, Democratic insiders are assembling a coalition behind the scenes to wage an all-outwar on the Senate filibusterin bullish anticipation of sweeping the2020 election.
It was disturbing confirmation that the campaign by some Democrats to eliminate the Senate's nearly 200-year-old practice for considering legislation has become official.
And it puts in stark contrast the choice voters will face in November. 
So what is the legislative filibuster?
It is the product of the Senate's tradition of unlimited debate.
The legislative filibuster is essentially the requirement that 60 senators agree before the Senate can end debate and vote on a contentious bill. 
In other words, you need 60 percent of the Senate to agree before you can pass a bill.
What this means in practice is that unlike in the House of Representatives, where legislation can easily pass with the support of just one party, in the Senate you generally need the support of at least some members of the other party before you can pass legislation.
Nowadays the Senate's filibuster rule could be said to be the primary thing that distinguishes the Senate from the House of Representatives.
And that matters because the Senate is SUPPOSED to be different from the House of Representatives.
The framers of the Constitution designed the Senate to be, as the minority leader once said  alluding to the legendary exchange between Washington and Jefferson  the cooling saucer of democracy. 
Wary of  to quote Federalist 62  the propensity of all single and numerous assemblies to yield to the impulse of sudden and violent passions, the Founders created the Senate as a check on the House of Representatives.
They made the Senate smaller and senators' terms of office longer, with the intention of creating a more stable, more thoughtful, and more deliberative legislative body to check ill-considered or intemperate legislation.
And as time has gone on, the legislative filibuster is the Senate rule that has had perhaps the greatest impact in preserving the Founders' vision of the Senate.
Thanks to the filibuster, it's often harder to get legislation through the Senate than through the House.
It requires more thought, more debate, and greater consensus.
And those are good things.
Historically, senators of both parties have recognized this.
They've seen beyond the narrow partisan advantage of a moment and fought for the preservation of the filibuster.
In 2005, when there was talk of abolishing the judicial filibuster, Democrat senators  some of whom serve in this body today  fought fiercely to safeguard it.
At a rally in March of that year, the current Democrat leader said, and I quote, They believe if you get 51% of the vote, there should be one party rule. We will stand in their way! Because an America of checks and balances is the America we love. It's the America the Founding Fathers created. It's been the America that's kept us successful for 200 years and we're not gonna let them change it!  We will fight, and we will preserve the Constitution.
Unfortunately, Democrats changed their tune a few years later when they thought abolishing the judicial filibuster would serve their advantage. 
But even then, Democrats  and later Republicans  sought to distinguish between confirming nominees and the importance of preserving debate on legislation.
Yet now they're talking about abolishing the fundamental practice of the Senate, the legislative filibuster, for the same prospect of temporary partisan gain.
Nothing's off the table,' the minority leader said, when asked about Democrats' intentions for the legislative filibuster if they win the Senate.
Mr. President, eliminating the legislative filibuster would permanently change the nature of the Senate.
The cooling saucer' the Founders envisioned would essentially be gone.
And the one-party rule the Democrat leader decried in 2005 would become a reality.
Some might ask why one-party rule is a problem.
After all, sometimes one party wins the Senate, the House, and the presidency.
Shouldn't that party be able to pass whatever legislation it wants?
Well, no, Mr. President.
Our country is relatively evenly split down the middle, with the advantage sometimes moving to the Republicans and sometimes to the Democrats.
But even if one party were a permanent minority in this country, one-party rule still wouldn't be acceptable.
Let me go back to the Federalist Papers for a minute.
Federalist 10 and 51 discuss two issues that the Founders were concerned about  minority rights and the tyranny of the majority.
While we tend to think of tyrants as single individuals, the Founders recognized that a majority could be tyrannical as well.
And so the Founders created a system of government designed to prevent a tyrannical majority from running roughshod over the rights of the minority.
And one of those checks was the Senate.
And today the legislative filibuster may be the single most important thing preserving the Senate's constitutional role as a check on majority tyranny.
By requiring 60 votes, the filibuster ensures that any legislation has to take into account the views of a broad group of senators.
With a 60-vote threshold, you're unlikely to get your legislation passed unless you bring some senators of the opposite party on board.
And that means the minority party has a real role in shaping legislation in the Senate  something the minority party in the House lacks.
Democrats have repeatedly used the legislative filibuster to their advantage during this Congress.
In March, Democrats filibustered our largest coronavirus relief bill, the CARES Act, until Republicans agreed to add some Democrat priorities.
And Democrats quickly took credit for making the bill better.
You would think Democrats would want to preserve this influence  especially now that Democrats have experienced the consequences of their decision to abolish the judicial filibuster.
Of course, when they say they want to abolish the legislative filibuster, Democrats mean that they want to abolish the legislative filibuster if they win a majority in November.
They have a lot of legislation they want to pass, and they don't want to have to moderate that legislation to address Republicans'  or Americans'  concerns. 
But I would remind my colleagues that no one is in power forever.
And if Democrats do win in November and abolish the legislative filibuster, they may quickly come to regret that decision once they're in the minority again.
Because no matter how permanent a majority thinks it will be, sooner or later every majority party returns to minority status.
Mr. President, in addition to doing away with the bipartisan nature of the Senate, ending the legislative filibuster would also erode the stability of government. 
Legislation would become more partisan, because the majority would not have to take into account the opinions of the minority party.
And that would make legislation more likely to be reversed as soon as the opposite party gained the majority in a future Congress. 
Without the legislative filibuster, it's not hard to see a future in which national policy on a host of issues could fluctuate wildly every few years.
Taxes could go up and down on a regular basis.
Government programs could be stopped and started every few years.
The consequences for individuals, businesses, and our economy would not just be unpleasant, but potentially devastating.
Mr. President, I understand the frustration of my Democrat colleagues.
I've been in the minority in the Senate.
I also know what it's like when you get into the majority and can't pass everything you want because the minority party will filibuster your bills.
I've certainly had moments when I wished we could just pass legislation with a simple majority.
Democrats have stood in the way of a lot of legislation I'd like to have passed this year  from Senator Scott's police reform bill to additional coronavirus relief to pro-life legislation.
It's also important to note that not every filibuster has been undertaken for noble purposes. 
Like every tool, it can be misused.
But I know that no matter how frustrating the filibuster may be in the moment, preserving it is essential to preserving this institution of the Senate and the purpose for which it was created.
It's essential to protecting minority rights. 
And it's an essential check on tyrannical majorities that would seek to curtail our freedoms.
Mr. President, legend has it that when Benjamin Franklin was leaving the Constitutional Convention, someone approached him and asked him what form of government the convention had instituted.
A republic,' Franklin said, if you can keep it.'
If you can keep it.'
Mr. President, today the legislative filibuster is the key rule preserving the Senate's constitutional role as a check on partisan passion.
I pray that no future Senate will destroy the Senate's essential role in our system of government for temporary partisan gain.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=305AE0C0-7397-4157-B63B-D3CC338199F6,Delegation Applauds Environmental Protection Agency Decision to Deny Gap-Year Small Refinery Exemption Petitions,2020-09-14,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) issued the following statements after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) denied dozens of requests from oil refineries seeking economic hardship exemptions from ethanol blending requirements under the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) dating from 2011 through 2018.
Administrator Wheeler's rejection of these gap year waiver petitions is welcome news for the American ethanol industry and our farmers, said Thune. Not only is this decision consistent with the RFS, it helps uphold President Trump's commitments to our homegrown biofuels industry. I am encouraged by this announcement, which, in conjunction with the Tenth Circuit ruling, should bring a drastic reduction in small refinery exemptions. Without the threat of looming gap SREs, I look forward to further restoring integrity to the RFS and ensuring this vital market for American farmers is available in the future.
The EPA's excessive issuance of Small Refinery Exemptions has undermined the integrity of the RFS for years, harming South Dakota corn and corn ethanol producers by reducing demand, said Rounds. Today's decision upholds the integrity of the RFS and Congress' intent of the law.Over the past year, I have been working with a handful of senators and President Trump to make sure the EPA requires 15 billion gallons of conventional ethanol to be blended into our fuel supply. Today's announcement is a step in the right direction to make sure that happens. I urge the EPA to deny additional outstanding waivers when they're received from the Department of Energy.
There's been a lot of uncertainty for biofuels this year, said Johnson. I'm encouraged the Trump administration is taking steps to deny refinery blending waivers. We need to protect the Renewable Fuel Standard and the biofuels industry deserves long-term certainty. That's whyI'll keep pushing my bill, the RFS Integrity Act, to ensure our producers aren't disadvantaged.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/delegation-applauds-environmental-protection-agency-decision-deny-gap-year,Delegation Applauds Environmental Protection Agency Decision to Deny ‘Gap-Year’ Small Refinery Exemption Petitions,2020-09-14,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) issued the following statements after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) denied dozens of requests from oil refineries seeking economic hardship exemptions from ethanol blending requirements under the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) dating from 2011 through 2018.

""Administrator Wheeler's rejection of these gap year waiver petitions is welcome news for the American ethanol industry and our farmers,"" said Thune. ""Not only is this decision consistent with the RFS, it helps uphold President Trump's commitments to our homegrown biofuels industry. I am encouraged by this announcement, which, in conjunction with the Tenth Circuit ruling, should bring a drastic reduction in small refinery exemptions. Without the threat of looming gap SREs, I look forward to further restoring integrity to the RFS and ensuring this vital market for American farmers is available in the future.""

""The EPA's excessive issuance of Small Refinery Exemptions has undermined the integrity of the RFS for years, harming South Dakota corn and corn ethanol producers by reducing demand,"" said Rounds. ""Today's decision upholds the integrity of the RFS and Congress' intent of the law. Over the past year, I have been working with a handful of senators and President Trump to make sure the EPA requires 15 billion gallons of conventional ethanol to be blended into our fuel supply. Today's announcement is a step in the right direction to make sure that happens. I urge the EPA to deny additional outstanding waivers when they're received from the Department of Energy.""

""There's been a lot of uncertainty for biofuels this year,"" said Johnson. ""I'm encouraged the Trump administration is taking steps to deny refinery blending waivers. We need to protect the Renewable Fuel Standard and the biofuels industry deserves long-term certainty. That's why I'll keep pushing my bill, the RFS Integrity Act, to ensure our producers aren't disadvantaged.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/mckinley-degette-gianforte-welch-johnson-matsui-lead-bipartisan-effort-stand,"McKinley, DeGette, Gianforte, Welch, Johnson, Matsui Lead Bipartisan Effort to Stand Up for Rural Patients, Hospitals",2020-09-14,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives David B. McKinley, P.E., (R-W.Va.), Diana DeGette (D-CO), Greg Gianforte (R-MT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), and Doris Matsui (D-CA), led a group of 243 Members of Congress in sending a letter to the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar requesting an immediate response is taken to ensure covered safety net providers continue to receive crucial 340B drug discounts.

Recently, several major drug manufacturers announced that they will limit or restrict federally required 340B drug discounts for eligible health care organizations. These providers rely on 340B savings to ensure access to care for low-income and rural patients.

""The 340B program plays an integral role in ensuring eligible health care organizations have access to vital lifesaving medications. As Members of Congress deeply committed to the important safety net mission of the 340B Drug Pricing Program, it is imperative that immediate action is taken to ensure covered entities continue to receive crucial 340B drug discounts,"" wrote the Members.

""Drug manufacturers are flouting their statutory obligations by restricting access to safe, affordable medications for low-income Americans who also are among those most affected by COVID-19,"" said Bruce Siegel MD, MPH, President and CEO of America's Essential Hospitals. ""We thank the nearly 250 House members led by Reps. McKinley, DeGette, Gianforte, Welch, Johnson, and Matsui, for their swift action to urge the administration to stop big pharma's ill-timed and illegal efforts to narrow the 340B program.""

Read the full letter below or click here.

Dear Secretary Azar:

The 340B program plays an integral role in ensuring eligible health care organizations have access to vital lifesaving medications. As Members of Congress deeply committed to the important safety net mission of the 340B Drug Pricing Program, it is imperative that immediate action is taken to ensure covered entities continue to receive crucial 340B drug discounts.

Recently, several pharmaceutical companies have taken a series of actions to restrict federally required 340B drug discounts for eligible health care organizations/covered entities, which are defined in statute and include HRSA-supported health centers and look-alikes, Ryan White clinics, Medicare/Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospitals, children's hospitals, and other safety net providers. These providers have always served as a critical part of our health care safety net, ensuring that our most vulnerable populations have access to the care they need. Right now, they are on the front lines of our national response to COVID-19. These providers rely on 340B savings to ensure access to care for low-income and rural patients. The recent actions undermine the intended purpose of the 340B Drug Pricing Program. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) must take immediate action to stop these companies from either denying or limiting access to 340B pricing to hospitals, health centers, and clinics participating in 340B.

Congress enacted 340B with strong bipartisan support more than 25 years ago to reduce drug costs for safety-net providers that care for vulnerable populations. Congress clearly stated the law's purpose: ""To stretch scarce Federal resources as far as possible, reaching more eligible patients and providing more comprehensive services."" The savings created by 340B do not cost the American taxpayer a single dollar, as the savings come directly from discounts provided by the manufacturers. Specifically, the 340B statute requires manufacturers wishing to participate in Medicaid and Medicare Part B to ""offer each covered entity covered outpatient drugs for purchase at or below the applicable ceiling price."" There are no provisions in the statute that allow manufacturers to set conditions or otherwise impede a provider's ability to access 340B discounts.

Despite this statutory requirement, several major drug manufacturers have recently announced that they will limit or restrict 340B pricing based on where the safety-net provider elects to have its 340B drugs shipped. These actions are in violation of the statutory requirement that drug companies charge no more than the 340B ceiling price when selling their products to 340B providers. They establish a dangerous precedent for other manufacturers to follow if immediate action is not taken.

Additionally, within the past two months, other manufacturers have sent requests to covered entities demanding extensive claims data that goes far beyond the scope of the 340B statute. These demands are not only needlessly burdensome for providers but also raise issues related to patient privacy. These companies are also threatening to limit or deny 340B pricing if these covered entities do not comply.

The actions of these companies violate the 340B statute and must be rejected. A failure to act will serve as an invitation to other manufacturers to follow suit, leading to a wholesale increase in prescription drug costs for our safety-net providers during a public health emergency. We urge you to use your authority to address these troubling actions and require these companies to comply with the law.

Thank you for your attention to these matters.

Background:

Since 1992, the 340B program has used mandated discounts offered by drug manufacturers to help hospitals and other covered entities provide discounted drugs and lifesaving services to their patients.

The letter is supported by: 340B Health, AEH, AAMC, AHA, Catholic Health Association, NRHA, Ryan White Clinics For 340B Access, Wellforce, NACHC, CommonSpirit Health, Denver Health, Colorado Community Health Network, National Alliance of Safety-Net Hospitals, St. Luke's University Health Network, West Virginia University Health System, Greater New York Hospital Association, Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania, and Kintegra Health.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=838C66FE-60AA-44E9-AE97-9D8E3238692B,Never Forget,2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"I was in Washington, D.C., on September 11, 2001. I remember stepping out of the congressional office buildings and looking west down the National Mall toward the Pentagon. Black smoke was billowing from the horizon. Members and staff were fleeing from the Capitol building. A deep and heavy sense of fear blanketed the city. That's when everything we had seen unfolding on television suddenly became real. America was under attack.
As we all tried to process what was happening in real time, I recall wondering, was the Capitol next? What about the White House? We didn't know it at the time, but, as America would later learn, thanks to the heroic action of the everyday heroes on United Flight 93, both locations, and likely targets, were spared.
At one point in the day, I spoke to my youngest daughter, Larissa. She, like most Americans, had two seemingly simple, yet pointed questions: Are we safe? And are we going to get the bad guys? I was serving in the U.S. House of Representatives at the time, but in that moment, I knew I was answering her questions as a dad and as an American citizen: Yes, we're safe. And yes, we're definitely going to get the bad guys.
In the days and weeks that followed, America was united. We were united in our grief. We were united in our anger. And we were united in what it meant to be an American.
In one of the more symbolic moments in the wake of these attacks, I recall when former President George W. Bush threw the first pitch at Yankee Stadium ahead of game three of the World Series. He took to the mound, bullet-proof vest under his jacket, to chants of USA! USA! USA! He looked around the stadium, wound up, and threw a perfect strike, right down the middle of home plate.
As the 9/11 Memorial and Museum in New York City since noted, This moment preceded one of the most extraordinary and needed wins in the Yankees' history. Although they would lose the series, winning each of the three contests at Yankee Stadium signaled to the city and to the world that life would go on.
As America began to rebuild, there were many signals that life would go on  signals that America would never forget.
The world will never exist quite like it did on September 10, 2001. But if there's a lesson we can carry with us about September 12, 2001, and beyond, it's that there is far more that unites us than what divides us. We're Americans. We celebrate the diversity that makes us unique. We don't let adversity get the best of us. We learn, listen, and grow. We know that while we may disagree from time to time, we're always stronger together than when we're apart.
While nearly two decades have passed since the 9/11 attacks, we still have not forgotten. We never will. Let's continue to honor the legacy set by the brave Americans who died that day and those who rose to the occasion when their nation needed them the most.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=396FDF5D-FD66-4EA8-BFF5-153FAF141D5A,"Thune: Republicans Have Been Ready to Negotiate, But Democrats Must Be Willing to Genuinely Compromise",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) discussed today's vote on COVID-19 relief legislation that prioritizes federal assistance to help hard-hit small businesses, safely get students back to school, and support frontline workers who are fighting the coronavirus. Thune noted that Democrats' desire for political gain appears greater than their desire to provide urgently needed relief to the American people.
Excerpts of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, once again this week, Republicans are bringing forward a proposal to provide additional coronavirus relief  to help protect jobs, to get kids and teachers back in the classroom safely, and to provide funding for the treatments and vaccines we need to defeat this virus.
And once again, Democrats are objecting.
It's the same old song  Republicans' bill doesn't spend enough.
Let's talk about that for a minute, Mr. President.
First of all, Republicans are not claiming that the bill we put on the floor this week contains the last dollars we'll need to spend in response to the coronavirus.
We may need to spend more.
This bill is simply an attempt to direct relief funds to some of the biggest priorities right now  like helping the hardest-hit small businesses weather this crisis and providing more resources for testing, treatment, and vaccines. 
These are areas we should all agree on.
Second of all, Democrats' coronavirus proposal  the $3 trillion bill they proposed  is both unrealistic and irresponsible.
Our nation is deeply, deeply in debt right now. 
Next year, our country will owe more than we produce for the first time since the end of World War II. 
That is a very bad place to be.

Now, in times of crisis, sometimes you do have to borrow money.
And that's what we had to do earlier this year, with the CARES Act and other coronavirus relief legislation.
But we have an absolute responsibility to every American, to every hardworking individual in this country, to ensure that we are only borrowing what is absolutely necessary.
And Democrats' proposal doesn't even come close to meeting the definition of necessary spending.

Of course, despite the unseriousness of Democrats' proposal, Republicans have been willing to compromise on a coronavirus bill from the beginning.
We understand how negotiation works, and we knew that we would have to give some ground, and that Democrats would have to give some ground. 
And we were  and are  willing to do that.
But from the beginning, Democrats have rejected serious negotiation.

The only way to get a bill through the Senate and to the president's desk is to develop a compromise bill.
Even if the majority leader put Democrats' exact bill on the floor today, there is no way it would make it through the Senate, much less be signed by the president.
So if Democrats really want a bill, they're going to have to compromise.
And that is something they continue to refuse to do.
Which leads to the logical conclusion that Democrats don't want a bill at all.
If Democrats really wanted to get relief to Americans, they would work with Republicans to pass a compromise bill.
Even if it didn't contain all the money Democrats want.
Because even if it were true that Republican legislation is inadequate, some money is better than no money.
If you can't get someone in need all the money you think they should have, you get them what money you can.
If Democrats really thought it was of overwhelming importance that we deliver relief to Americans right now, they would be working with Republicans to get as much relief as they could through Congress.
But for Democrats, delivering relief to Americans is not really of overwhelming importance.
What is of overwhelming importance to Democrats is keeping coronavirus alive as a political issue.
And if that means no bill, well, Democrats are okay with that.
They'd rather have no bill and a political weapon than have a bill and allow Republicans to say that we helped Americans.
And so all indications are that they plan to filibuster this bill.

Mr. President, there's not a lot Republicans can do if Democrats intend to keep prioritizing perceived political advantage over doing their jobs as legislators.
But we're going to take this vote on coronavirus relief this week, and we're going to keep offering opportunities for Democrats to work with Republicans to help the American people.
And maybe some of the Democrat rank-and-file will decide that they've had enough of their leaders playing politics and will resolve to work with Republicans to get things done.
Republicans are ready to negotiate.
We just need Democrats to come to the table.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=4008A916-EF91-4A51-AB64-700D0E52BCB6,Delegation Applauds Progress Toward Keeping Hot Springs VA Medical Center Open,2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) issued the following statements after Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert Wilkie indicated the VA would begin the process to formally rescind its earlier record of decision to realign the VA Black Hills Health Care System, which would have significantly reduced services at the Hot Springs VA medical center.
It is good to see that the VA is formally moving forward to deliver on Secretary Wilkie's March 3, 2020, reassurances that the Hot Springs campus will remain open to serve our veterans, said Thune. The fight to keep The Veteran's Town' open began nearly 10 years ago when President Obama first announced plans to realign' the facility  a technical way of saying they wanted to close it. Since that time, I've fought hard to keep pressure on the VA so the facility remained open, knowing how much it means not just to our veterans, but to the community as a whole. For years, we told VA officials that once they visited Hot Springs, they would realize its true value and potential, which is why I was proud to help lead the effort that brought Secretary Wilkie to The Veterans Town' in March  a visit that I believe ultimately helped move this process along. This is good news, and I could not be more proud of the Hot Springs community for continuing to fight this long and tough battle. There's still more work to be done, but I remain committed to South Dakota's veterans.
The Hot Springs VA facility provides top-notch care to rural veterans across the region, said Rounds. While we're still reviewing the action, this announcement is a positive step toward securing the campus as a place for veterans to receive these vital healthcare services in the years ahead. We also recognize that there is more work to be done. We'll continue working with the VA to make sure it follows through on finalizing this decision to keep the Hot Springs VA campus open.
South Dakotans have been fighting for Hot Springs for a long time, said Johnson. After years of effort by the Hot Springs community and the South Dakota delegation, Secretary Wilkie assured us in March the VA isn't going anywhere. It's encouraging to see the VA is rescinding any efforts to reduce services and I know our veterans will be relieved after years of uncertainty. This is a positive step and I'm willing and ready to work with the VA to ensure the Hot Springs facility remains intact.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=6B4F5AEC-ECDC-49FA-BB38-1D0F8E901FD0,Thune Statement on Democrats Filibuster of Coronavirus Relief Funding,2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today issued the following statement after Senate Democrats filibustered crucial COVID-19 relief legislation that would respond to this crisis by prioritizing federal assistance to help hard-hit small businesses, safely get students back to school, and support frontline workers who are fighting the coronavirus.
When it comes to the coronavirus crisis, it should be clear to any objective observer that Democrats would rather keep a political issue than give the American people and businesses the assistance they need, said Thune. With today's vote, Democrats apparently believe that approving zero dollars in COVID relief funding is a better outcome than working with Republicans to find common ground on a targeted approach to this critical issue. It's disappointing, to say the least.
Despite many good-faith attempts from Republicans, Democrats are unwilling to compromise unless Republicans simply concede to adding trillions of additional dollars to our national debt. If Democrats were serious about coronavirus relief, they would be willing to negotiate with Republicans to arrive at a bill that both sides could agree to  and that could actually pass Congress. While this setback is disappointing, Republicans are committed to providing targeted resources to continue to fight COVID-19 and support families and businesses.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=FA68E986-3397-4D33-AEE5-EAC4065D7271,"With Delegation Support, Department of Transportation Awards South Dakota Critical Highway Funding",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) applauded the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT's) decision to awarda $22 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant to reconstruct 30 miles of Highway 46 between US-81 and I-29 near Beresford and Irene, a critical route for agriculture producers in southeast South Dakota and for those driving between Yankton and Sioux Falls.
Today's announcement is exciting news for the state and builds on several infrastructure improvements made with the help of the Department of Transportation over the past three years, said Thune. This project is a priority for the region, and I am glad that those traveling along this corridor will soon benefit from this infrastructure investment.
South Dakota's highways connect our cities and towns, allowing for the transportation of goods and commodities, said Rounds. As our highways age, it's important we perform necessary maintenance to keep them in safe working condition for years to come. I thank Secretary Chao for approving a BUILD Grant to help reconstruct and widen a 70-year-old section of SD HWY 46 in southeastern South Dakota.
This BUILD Grant has been a priority of the delegation and the South Dakota Department of Transportation, said Johnson. The expansion of SD 46 roadway will ensure South Dakota stays connected from Yankton to Sioux Falls, and I'm grateful Secretary Chao recognizes the importance of this key infrastructure project.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/delegation-applauds-progress-toward-keeping-hot-springs-va-medical-center-open,Delegation Applauds Progress Toward Keeping Hot Springs VA Medical Center Open,2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) issued the following statements after Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert Wilkie indicated the VA would begin the process to formally rescind its earlier record of decision to realign the VA Black Hills Health Care System, which would have significantly reduced services at the Hot Springs VA medical center.

""It is good to see that the VA is formally moving forward to deliver on Secretary Wilkie's March 3, 2020, reassurances that the Hot Springs campus will remain open to serve our veterans,"" said Thune. ""The fight to keep ‘The Veteran's Town' open began nearly 10 years ago when President Obama first announced plans to ‘realign' the facility – a technical way of saying they wanted to close it. Since that time, I've fought hard to keep pressure on the VA so the facility remained open, knowing how much it means not just to our veterans, but to the community as a whole. For years, we told VA officials that once they visited Hot Springs, they would realize its true value and potential, which is why I was proud to help lead the effort that brought Secretary Wilkie to ‘The Veterans Town' in March – a visit that I believe ultimately helped move this process along. This is good news, and I could not be more proud of the Hot Springs community for continuing to fight this long and tough battle. There's still more work to be done, but I remain committed to South Dakota's veterans.""

""The Hot Springs VA facility provides top-notch care to rural veterans across the region,"" said Rounds. ""While we're still reviewing the action, this announcement is a positive step toward securing the campus as a place for veterans to receive these vital healthcare services in the years ahead. We also recognize that there is more work to be done. We'll continue working with the VA to make sure it follows through on finalizing this decision to keep the Hot Springs VA campus open.""

""South Dakotans have been fighting for Hot Springs for a long time,"" said Johnson. ""After years of effort by the Hot Springs community and the South Dakota delegation, Secretary Wilkie assured us in March the VA isn't going anywhere. It's encouraging to see the VA is rescinding any efforts to reduce services and I know our veterans will be relieved after years of uncertainty. This is a positive step and I'm willing and ready to work with the VA to ensure the Hot Springs facility remains intact.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/delegation-support-department-transportation-awards-south-dakota-critical,"With Delegation Support, Department of Transportation Awards South Dakota Critical Highway Funding",2020-09-10,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) applauded the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT's) decision to award a $22 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant to reconstruct 30 miles of Highway 46 between US-81 and I-29 near Beresford and Irene, a critical route for agriculture producers in southeast South Dakota and for those driving between Yankton and Sioux Falls.

""This BUILD Grant has been a priority of the delegation and the South Dakota Department of Transportation,"" said Johnson. ""The expansion of SD 46 roadway will ensure South Dakota stays connected from Yankton to Sioux Falls, and I'm grateful Secretary Chao recognizes the importance of this key infrastructure project.""

""Today's announcement is exciting news for the state and builds on several infrastructure improvements made with the help of the Department of Transportation over the past three years,"" said Thune. ""This project is a priority for the region, and I am glad that those traveling along this corridor will soon benefit from this infrastructure investment.""

""South Dakota's highways connect our cities and towns, allowing for the transportation of goods and commodities,"" said Rounds. ""As our highways age, it's important we perform necessary maintenance to keep them in safe working condition for years to come. I thank Secretary Chao for approving a BUILD Grant to help reconstruct and widen a 70-year-old section of SD HWY 46 in southeastern South Dakota.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0D13E70D-9E5D-4520-9E17-4CE5EDEC7B4E,Thune: Senate Republicans New COVID-19 Relief Bill Prioritizes Struggling Americans,2020-09-09,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed new COVID-19 relief legislation that was recently introduced by Senate Republicans. This legislation prioritizes assistance to helping the hardest-hit small businesses, getting students back to school, and providing additional resources to fight the coronavirus. Thune urged Senate Democrats to stop politicizing the coronavirus and prioritize the American people.
Excerpt of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, we got more good news about our economic recovery on Friday.
The economy added 1.4 million jobs in August, and the unemployment rate fell again, to 8.4 percent.
Now, Mr. President, let's be clear: 8.4 percent is not where we want to be.
But it is a tremendous improvement from where we were just four months ago, near the beginning of the pandemic, when the unemployment rate was 14.7 percent.
And it is very encouraging to see the economy rebounding so quickly.
The last time America went through a really rough time economically  during the first few years of the Obama-Biden administration  unemployment stayed high for years.
In fact, during the Obama-Biden administration, America went through two solid years of unemployment above 9 percent.
So it's been great to see the economy rebounding at a rapid pace.
Again, we're still a long way from where we need and want to be.
8.4 percent is not an acceptable unemployment rate.
But we're definitely on the right track.
Mr. President, one reason our economy is rebounding quickly is because the economy was thriving before COVID came along.
Republican tax reform and pro-growth policies had driven unemployment below 4 percent and created jobs and opportunities for Americans.
Having the economy in a healthy position pre-COVID laid the groundwork for a strong recovery.
And the policies we put in place during the early days of the pandemic to help businesses  particularly small businesses  survive the pandemic and keep workers on the payroll have gone a long way toward helping our economy rebound.
Republicans are committed to building on those policies.
But, as everyone knows, Democrats have so far blocked our efforts.
Despite weeks of negotiating efforts from Republicans, Democrats refused to budge from their demands for a giant bill that would spend an irresponsible amount of taxpayer money and include a bunch of measures with no relation to the coronavirus crisis.
But this week, Republicans are trying again.
We've introduced a targeted bill focused on a few key coronavirus priorities  like helping the hardest-hit small businesses, getting kids and college students back to school, and providing additional health care resources to fight the virus.
The Paycheck Protection Program Congress passed as part of the CARES Act back in March has played a key role in helping small businesses survive during the pandemic.
The legislation we've introduced would authorize a second round of forgivable Paycheck Protection Program loans for the hardest hit small businesses.
It would also simplify the loan forgiveness process for small businesses with Paycheck Protection Program loans of $150,000 or less.
The virus has highlighted how much we rely on our nation's farmers and ranchers, and I'm very pleased that our legislation includes an additional $20 billion in funding to allow the Department of Agriculture to continue to assist ag producers.
Our legislation would also provide for an additional $300 per week  over and above regular unemployment benefits  for those who have lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic.
Mr. President, our bill contains another important measure to help keep our recovery going and protect jobs, and that is liability protections.
No matter how many precautions schools and businesses take, there is no way for them to completely eliminate all risk of employees, students, or customers contracting the virus.
But that doesn't matter to the army of trial lawyers itching to levy lawsuits against even the most careful schools and businesses.
I don't need to tell anybody that saddling businesses large and small with a bunch of frivolous lawsuits could seriously hamstring our economic recovery.
There's no question that schools and businesses should be liable for gross negligence or intentional misconduct.
But businesses and schools that are taking every reasonable precaution to protect employees and students should not have to worry about facing lawsuits for virus transmission that they could not have prevented.
In addition to providing schools with liability protections, our bill focuses on providing schools with the resources they need to get kids and teachers back in classrooms, safely.
Our bill would help expand the educational options parents have for their children.
And it would provide increased funding for child care during this crisis, so that parents who are trying to get back to work have a safe place to send their kids.
Finally, our bill would provide more money for coronavirus testing and tracing and for the development of the therapies and vaccines we need to defeat this virus.
And it would focus on building up state and national stockpiles of the medical resources needed for public health emergencies like the coronavirus.
Mr. President, I'd like to think that Democrats would work with us to get a version of our legislation passed this week.
While this bill may not address every current or future coronavirus need, it would go a long way toward helping with our most pressing needs  supporting jobs, getting kids and teachers back to school, and ensuring we have the medical resources necessary to fight the virus.
Unfortunately, it's become very clear that Democrats are more interested in keeping the coronavirus as a political issue than in actually fighting this virus.
If Democrats were serious about coronavirus relief, they would be willing to negotiate with Republicans to arrive at a bill that both sides could agree to  and that could actually pass Congress.
But they've made it very clear that reasonable negotiations are off the table.
Instead, they're content to see Americans suffer or our economic recovery slow in the hopes that they'll be able to use the coronavirus as a political issue in November.
It's disappointing, Mr. President.
But it's not going to stop Republicans from continuing to try to pass coronavirus relief legislation.
The American people are depending on us.
And we're going to do everything we can not to let them down.
I hope at least some Democrats will decide that they should join us.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=97CC9020-5CA2-41CC-96A2-97B46172F277,Thune and Johnson Seek Nominations to U.S. Military Academies,2020-09-09,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D) today announced that they are accepting applications to the U.S. military academies for the class entering in the summer of 2021.
Students interested in attending a service academy must first obtain a nomination from a member of Congress. Thune and Johnson will make nominations to the Military Academy at West Point, the Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, the Naval Academy at Annapolis, and the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York.
The service academies provide an excellent educational opportunity for a select number of young men and women each year. The deadline for submitting an application to both offices will be November 13, 2020, with interviews in Sioux Falls and Rapid city to be held on December 5. Interested individuals should contact Cathy Mendel in Thune's office at 605-334-9596 and Chelsea Schull in Johnson's office at 605-275-2868 for more information.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thune-and-johnson-seek-nominations-us-military-academies,Thune and Johnson Seek Nominations to U.S. Military Academies,2020-09-09,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D) today announced that they are accepting applications to the U.S. military academies for the class entering in the summer of 2021.

Students interested in attending a service academy must first obtain a nomination from a member of Congress. Thune and Johnson will make nominations to the Military Academy at West Point, the Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, the Naval Academy at Annapolis, and the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York.

The service academies provide an excellent educational opportunity for a select number of young men and women each year. The deadline for submitting an application to both offices will be November 13, 2020, with interviews in Sioux Falls and Rapid city to be held on December 5. Interested individuals should contact Cathy Mendel in Thune's office at 605-334-9596 and Chelsea Schull in Johnson's office at 605-275-2868 for more information.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=9FD27421-F612-4835-8870-67FF61CD8763,Staying on Course to Advance Self-Driving Vehicles,2020-09-04,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Each year, more than 35,000 people die in automobile accidents on our nation's roads.Approximately 90 percent of those accidents can be attributed to human error, which is why self-driving or automated vehicles (AVs) present an opportunity to make incredible gains in the safe movement of people and goods on our roads.South Dakotans are already familiar with automation, which has brought several economic, safety, and efficiency benefits to the agriculture sector, and I believe South Dakota also stands to benefit greatly from the deployment of AVs.
These vehicleshave the potential to greatly improve mobility and quality of life for all Americans, especially the disabled and the elderly, whose mobility is often limited by a lack of viable transportation options. And this emerging technology will also allow planners to reimagine civic challenges and opportunities like parking and traffic flow, making roads safer and less congested.
Back in 2017, when I chaired the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, I introduced the American Vision for Safer Transportation Through Advancement of Revolutionary Technologies  or AV START Act  which, if enacted, would provide the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) with new tools to safely test and deploy AVs.
AVs will only be able to operate safely when the companies developing them are certain these vehicles can safely react to driving situations we all encounter each day.That is why AV testing is so critical.It ensures AVs are capable of safely navigating roadways and constantly changing traffic conditions.DOT recently launched the Automated Vehicle Transparency and Engagement for Safe Testing, or AV TEST Initiative, to facilitate greater awareness and engagement by industry, consumers, and the general public as AV testing becomes increasingly prevalent across the nation.
While Congress is often slow to react to new technologies, I remain committed to working in a bipartisan manner to ensure a strong legislative framework is put in place to promote the safe deployment of these vehicles.Any AV legislation should preserve the traditional roles of federal and state regulators, build on DOT's current efforts to update regulatory requirements that were not written with AVs in mind, and continue to expand AV testing and data collection.
I'm optimistic the AV TEST Initiative will encourage the development of advanced solutions to improve vehicle safety, while providing necessary data to inform safe and nationally consistent rules for AVs.Importantly, this initiative will promote engagement by industry stakeholders and the public in the development of AV testing guidelines at the federal level.
This engagement is critical for acceptance of AVs by the general public and to ensure that we can all feel safe around AVs undergoing roadway testing.I'm glad that DOT launched this important initiative, and I look forward to continuing my efforts to harness the safety, quality of life, and economic benefits of this critical emerging technology.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-tillis-request-ppe-tax-deduction-teachers,"Johnson, Tillis Request PPE Tax Deduction for Teachers",2020-09-01,2020,2020-09,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) urged U.S. Department of Treasury Secretary Mnuchin to include personal protective equipment (PPE) as a deductible classroom expense under the Educator Expense Deduction. Currently, educators can deduct up to $250 of supplementary classroom materials and equipment.

""Under normal circumstances, teachers often cover classroom costs out of pocket. As many school districts return to in-person learning, it is likely that teachers will on, a case-by-case basis, make purchases to protect their health and the health of their students,"" said the members. ""We ask that purchases made for COVID-19 prevention be a deductible expense.""

Text of the full letter here or below:

The Honorable Steven T. Mnuchin

Secretary of the Treasury

U.S. Department of Treasury

1500 Pennsylvania Ave., NW

Washington, D.C. 20220

Dear Secretary Mnuchin,

We are writing to request guidance to ensure personal protective equipment (PPE), sanitizer, plexiglass and other protective measures as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) as well as state and local officials are deductible classroom expenses under the Internal Revenue Service's (IRS) Educator Expense Deduction authorized by section 62(a)(2)(D) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. As school districts work on providing a safe classroom environment and enough PPE, some teachers may wish to supplement these efforts and take further personal precautions for their health and the health of their students. We ask that purchases made for COVID-19 prevention be a deductible expense.

According to the IRS, if you're an eligible educator, you can deduct up to $250 ($500 if married and filing jointly and both spouses are eligible educators, but not more than $250 each) of unreimbursed trade or business expenses. Qualified expenses are amounts the educator incurred for participation in professional development courses, books, supplies, computer equipment (including related software and services), other equipment, and supplementary materials used in the classroom.

Under normal circumstances, teachers often cover classroom costs out of pocket. As many school districts return to in-person learning, it is likely that teachers will on, a case-by-case basis, make purchases to protect their health and the health of their students.

As we ask each and every American to do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19, we also ask that essential teachers do their part to keep the next generation from falling behind. Simple guidance to ensure the Educator Expense Deduction will provide an ""above the line"" deduction for simple investments will help keep our classrooms safe and healthy.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:28:51Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=DEC0E4CF-58ED-4C34-9D34-7793782E0D7B,Thank You to South Dakotas Frontline Heroes,2020-08-28,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As the coronavirus pandemic spread from city to city and state to state throughout the country, heroes emerged in some unlikely forms. Delivery drivers helped keep our economy moving, literally. Grocery store workers risked their own health and safety to ensure shelves were stocked and home necessities were available. Sanitation and utility workers helped keep our lights on, our internet connected, and trash off of our streets. And, of course, doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals stepped up in a big way and have been fighting on the frontline since this crisis first began.
From the early days of the pandemic, when Congress was grappling with how to respond, members of South Dakota's health care community were some of the first and most consistent calls I made. I can recall sitting in my office in Washington in between meetings about what would eventually become the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act  bipartisan legislation that was unanimously approved by Congress in March  and getting real-time updates from medical professionals on the ground in South Dakota.
Congress knew that the virus wouldn't affect every state the same way, so it was critical to hear what folks were seeing and hearing throughout the country. The feedback I received from South Dakota's health care providers helped shape my approach to coronavirus relief discussions in Congress. I wanted to ensure our health care community had the tools it needed to prepare for what was coming and to act when necessary. Since the CARES Act's passage, I'm proud to say that nearly $520 million in federal relief funds have been allocated to South Dakota's health care community to help fight this battle.
Just because Congress acted, it doesn't mean my reliance on these frontline workers' advice and feedback has ended. This is an unprecedented crisis, and I want to be sure the federal investment in the response is working effectively and efficiently. I also want to be sure there aren't additional needs that aren't being met.
As I said, I've been in constant contact with South Dakota's health care community  through phone calls, virtual meetings, and other correspondence. Seeing things firsthand can't be replicated, though, which is why I recently made several stops to hear directly from providers in our state.
I was fortunate to meet with officials from Avera Queen of Peace Hospital in Mitchell and Prairie Lakes Healthcare System in Watertown. These folks are the real heroes, and I was humbled to thank them in person (socially distanced, of course) for their continued service. We covered a variety of topics, including progress on a COVID vaccine, the importance of testing and contact tracing, and telehealth services, just to name a few. Their insight continues to prove to be invaluable.
On telehealth, in particular, I think we've all learned just how important this vital service is to rural communities. It's something I've been fighting to strengthen for years  both on the health delivery side and the rural broadband side. Both are critically important to telehealth's success, and we've seen just how well it can work during the pandemic. It's an issue that I will continue to advocate for and find permanent solutions to some of the obstacles that still exist.
Again, I can't say it enough, but on behalf of a grateful state, I want to extend a hearty thank you to everyone, especially our health care heroes, who have stepped up over the last few months. That list also includes the people of South Dakota who have continued to show that personal responsibility is also a big factor in fighting this virus. I've been saying it from the beginning, but we're all in this together, and South Dakotans have proven that's true.
Click here and here for photos from Sen. Thune's recent visits to Mitchell and Watertown.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-honors-west-river-vietnam-veterans,Johnson Honors West River Vietnam Veterans,2020-08-26,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today in Rapid City, U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) honored thirteen Veterans who served during the Vietnam War with a commemoration pin for their service to our nation.

""Too many of our Vietnam-era veterans were not welcomed home properly. It's never too late to do the right thing,"" Johnson said. ""That's why it's important for me to look these leaders in the eye and tell them that our grateful nation thanks them for their service.""

Rep. Johnson honors Vietnam Veterans will commemorative pins for their service during the Vietnam War.

Vietnam Veteran Stanley Self Sr. Stanley served in the Marine Corps from 1963 to 1967 and medically retired in 1969 as an E3 Lance Corporal. He was a machine gunner and had been stationed at Camp Lejeune and Oahu.

Vietnam Veterans and Brothers, John Deming (left) and Dean Deming (middle). John served in the Army from 1968-1971. Dean served in the Army from 1963 to 1966, and then in the National Guard for a year before going back to the Army from 1967 to 1970.

Vietnam Veteran Jack Dean. Jack was in the Navy and served combat time in Vietnam. He then served in the Air Force and retired as an E6 Technical Sergeant. He was the SD State VFW President from 2000-2001 and current Post 463 Commander. Jack is also the SD State Council President for Vietnam Veterans of America.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:24:54Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=1C086510-7D39-4122-AA27-54044AE137FC,A Little Bit of Commonsense Goes a Long Way,2020-08-21,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"I've always thought that when we Americans get up in the morning, when we see bacon, eggs, toast, and milk on our breakfast table, we should give thanks that our farmers are survivors. You are the real miracle workers of the modern world  keepers of an incredible system based on faith, freedom, hard work, productivity, and profit  a system that feeds us and sustains millions of the world's hungry.
When President Reagan delivered that message to the American people in 1982, the U.S. agriculture economy was in the throes of a severe recession. South Dakota's farmers and ranchers are familiar with adversity, and while today's agriculture economy technically isn't in a recession, technicalities don't matter. Times are really tough, and an already sluggish agriculture economy has been accentuated by the hurdles of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Farm and ranch families know I'm in their corner, no matter the circumstances. While the farm bill is one of the best chances to enact meaningful and long-term policy changes, it only comes around every five years, at the earliest. Conditions in farm country can change on a dime, though, which means we don't have the luxury of sitting around and waiting for the next farm bill to come around. I'm always learning from and listening to South Dakota's agriculture community and acting when necessary.
In 2019, many producers throughout the Great Plains, including South Dakota, weren't able to plant their fields due to extreme weather events. Given the reality of a late planting season, many producers turned to cover crops on their prevented plant acres, of which there were nearly 4 million acres in South Dakota alone. While it's a good option for producers, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Risk Management Agency rule prohibited haying or grazing prevented plant acres prior to November 1 each year without a reduction in producers' prevented plant payments.
Anyone who's spent a fall or winter in South Dakota knows that by the time November rolls around, we've likely already encountered frost or snow  not exactly the kind of weather that's conducive to growing crops outdoors. Having a single date for every corner of the country just doesn't make sense. I've repeatedly delivered that message to USDA, and after working with them for several months last year, they moved up the haying and grazing date to September 1, which is far more manageable for our producers.
USDA's administrative change only applied to 2019, but if the arbitrary, late-in-season date didn't make sense last year, why does it make sense this year or any year going forward? On March 12, 2020, I introduced the Cover Crop Flexibility Act of 2020 to provide a permanent and common-sense solution to this problem.My bill would eliminate the arbitrary November 1 date restriction and allow producers to hay or graze cover crops on prevented plant acres outside of the primary nesting season, which ends August 1 each year in South Dakota.
Until Congress is able to act on my legislation, I asked USDA to simply extend the change they made in 2019 through the 2020 planting season. While we ran into a bit of resistance at first, we kept pressure on USDA leadership, who ultimately relented.
On August 17, USDA announced it would allow producers with excess moisture and flooding to hay, graze, or chop cover crops on prevented plant acres beginning September 1 in Beadle, Brown, Brule, Campbell, Clark, Codington, Day, Edmunds, Faulk, Hand, Hanson, Hyde, McPherson, Marshall, Potter, Roberts, Sanborn, Spink, and Walworth counties.
I'm glad producers were ultimately given a reprieve this year, but the fact that USDA has made this change two years in a row highlights the importance of passing my Cover Crop Flexibility Act. Commonsense should prevail on this issue, and I can assure South Dakota producers that I'll be pushing for its passage to avoid similar obstacles next year and beyond.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-peterson-introduce-bill-include-newspaper-printing-costs-paycheck,"Johnson, Peterson Introduce Bill to Include Newspaper Printing Costs in Paycheck Protection Program",2020-08-19,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Collin Peterson (D-MN) introduced the Preserving Readership and Information of Newspapers for Tomorrow (PRINT) Act, which would include the cost of print production of local print media in the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Currently, local media is eligible for the PPP, but printing costs are not forgivable under the program guidelines.

""A free press is critical to our democracy,"" said Johnson. ""Our local news teams work day in and day out to keep South Dakotans informed of what's happening both locally and nationally. Unfortunately, local media hasn't been immune from the financial impact of COVID-19. A slowdown of advertisements and subsequent layoffs continue to threaten our ability to maintain a free press, the PRINT Act will help alleviate some of the burden our print shops are facing.""

""We rely on local newspapers for information about what the city council and county boards are doing, the births, deaths and weddings, what's happening at school, who's running for office, and how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting our lives,"" said Peterson. ""COVID-19 has made the already vital role of local news even more critical, at a time when many small businesses are struggling to keep the doors open. The PRINT Act will help our small and rural newspapers to continue their important work informing our communities.""

""Keeping the newspaper going during the pandemic is an essential service. Second only to staffing costs are production expenses—printing, ink, paper and the contracts associated with getting the paper out. Allowing community newspapers that still have PPP dollars through the end of the year to spend their money on printing would help our local newspapers to survive."" – Matthew Adelman President, National Newspaper Association and Publisher.

""South Dakota's newspapers are appreciative of Rep. Johnson's legislation to include the costs of printing and production in the Paycheck Protection Program. Having that flexibility in a PPP loan for newspapers would be very significant since printing costs make up a major portion of every newspaper's ongoing fixed expenses. As importantly, SDNA and its member newspapers thank the Congressman for his understanding and appreciation of the importance and need for local journalism in communities across South Dakota and our nation. Dusty's lead on this legislation demonstrates that conviction and we are grateful."" – David Bordewyk, Executive Director, South Dakota Newspaper Association.

""Minnesota's community newspapers are severely challenged in their efforts to produce reliable local news and advertising products during this Covid-19 pandemic. Allowing PPP funds to help cover production costs would go a long way to keep our local newspapers producing their essential publications."" – Chris Knight, President Minnesota Newspaper Association and Regional President/Publisher APG Media

Text of the bill can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:24:54Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=AC6B3ED2-A521-4231-92E9-059A48E20782,"Following Thune-Johnson Request, USDA Provides Flexibility for Harvesting and Grazing Cover Crops on Prevented Plant Acres",2020-08-17,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), members of the Senate and House Agriculture Committees, respectively, today issued the following statements after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it would allow producers to graze or harvest cover crops on prevented plant acres in certain counties prior to November 1, following their request in June. South Dakota producers will be allowed to hay, graze, or chop cover crops on prevented plant acres beginning September 1 in Beadle, Brown, Brule, Campbell, Clark, Codington, Day, Edmunds, Faulk, Hand, Hanson, Hyde, McPherson, Marshall, Potter, Roberts, Sanborn, Spink, and Walworth counties.
Although we were hoping this announcement would have been made in June, we are glad some producers in South Dakota will have relief during these unprecedented environmental and economic circumstances, said Thune. The November 1 date puts producers in northern states like South Dakota at a disadvantage, especially considering South Dakota's uncertain fall and winter weather.I will continue working on a long-term legislative solution to permanently remove this date restriction, which would help level the playing field and give our producers the certainty they need.
During these times, what South Dakotans need most is flexibility, said Johnson. Our producers continue to request changes to the prevent plant harvest date and for the last two years we've been able to get that done. This is good news for our farmers and ranchers, but I will continue to push for legislative solutions like the FEEDD Act to provide more certainty to our producers facing unpredictable South Dakota winters.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/following-thune-johnson-request-usda-provides-flexibility-harvesting-and,"Following Thune-Johnson Request, USDA Provides Flexibility for Harvesting and Grazing Cover Crops on Prevented Plant Acres",2020-08-17,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), members of the Senate and House Agriculture Committees, respectively, today issued the following statements after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it would allow producers to graze or harvest cover crops on prevented plant acres in certain counties prior to November 1, following their request in June. South Dakota producers will be allowed to hay, graze, or chop cover crops on prevented plant acres beginning September 1 in Beadle, Brown, Brule, Campbell, Clark, Codington, Day, Edmunds, Faulk, Hand, Hanson, Hyde, McPherson, Marshall, Potter, Roberts, Sanborn, Spink, and Walworth counties.

""Although we were hoping this announcement would have been made in June, we are glad some producers in South Dakota will have relief during these unprecedented environmental and economic circumstances,"" said Thune. ""The November 1 date puts producers in northern states like South Dakota at a disadvantage, especially considering South Dakota's uncertain fall and winter weather. I will continue working on a long-term legislative solution to permanently remove this date restriction, which would help level the playing field and give our producers the certainty they need.""

""During these times, what South Dakotans need most is flexibility,"" said Johnson. ""Our producers continue to request changes to the prevent plant harvest date and for the last two years we've been able to get that done. This is good news for our farmers and ranchers, but I will continue to push for legislative solutions like the FEEDD Act to provide more certainty to our producers facing unpredictable South Dakota winters.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:24:54Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=06A32488-FAF5-416C-906B-A5E0FF55DB79,Statement on the Passing of Harold Thune,2020-08-15,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) issued the following statement on the passing of his father, Harold Thune.
My dad was the embodiment of the American Dream, said Thune. He was a small-town South Dakota kid who worked hard and valued God, family, and country. He lived a life of purpose that imparted a set of values on me and my siblings that I've always tried to embody and pass on to my kids and grandkids. And as a kid himself, he answered our nation's call to defend freedom and help free the world from tyranny and oppression during World War II. He was my hero.
One of the greatest treasures my dad gave me was the appreciation for being part of a team, no matter what station in life I've found myself  in sports, in politics, in governing, and, most importantly, in being part of a family. He'd always talk about making the pass, finding your teammate, making the team better. Whether we were on the basketball court, sitting around the kitchen table, or in the halls of Congress, his advice always made sense  now more than ever.
This hurts, and I'm going to miss him, but I can't help but smile knowing he's been reunited with my mom, the love of his life. I'll miss you, dad, but thank you for making me a better person, a better father, and a better citizen of this country you helped defend.
Harold Thune, 100, was a World War II veteran, educator, and lifelong South Dakota resident. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pat.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=BE356BA0-4999-4E9E-89E3-A45060555B16,Here to Take Your Call,2020-08-14,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"This year has been full of unexpected and unprecedented experiences. A global pandemic will do that, as we've all come to learn. And while the hardworking, common-sense people of South Dakota have been an example of how to respond to a national crisis like this one, by striking a balance between public safety and personal freedom and responsibility, we, too, have seen our day-to-day lives affected by this ongoing outbreak.
In March, after Congress responded to this crisis by passing a massive relief bill that provided funding for personal protective equipment for frontline medical personnel, vaccine and treatment development, direct relief payments to American citizens, and forgivable loans for small businesses, the reality really started to set in. America hadn't seen a public health crisis like this in more than 100 years, and given today's global and interconnected economy, we found ourselves in completely uncharted territory.
While I knew our state and local communities would face uncertain times in the days, weeks, and months ahead, I had one message for my team throughout South Dakota and in Washington, D.C. While I knew they, too, and their families were experiencing the same risks and set of unknowns as everyone else, I didn't want the people of South Dakota to feel an ounce of difference when they reached out to my office for help.
My team didn't skip a beat, which will come as no surprise to those who've had the opportunity to work with them over the years. They went right to work and have helped me every step of the way to continue providing the same level of service and professionalism the people of South Dakota have grown to expect during the best of times, let alone in the middle of a national crisis like this one. Phone calls were answered; letters and emails were opened, read, and responded to; constituent casework continued to be addressed, and South Dakotans' feedback was delivered to my colleagues in Washington.
Our country certainly knows more about this invisible enemy today than we did in March and April, and we're better equipped in terms of our response. While I wish we could just go back to the way things were before this virus was unleashed, we're making significant progress on the road to recovery. Public safety must continue to be the nation's top priority as we all continue to deal with this outbreak, which will help America return to normal as soon as possible. 
South Dakotans are resilient people, as if anyone had ever doubted it. They take obstacles head-on and deal with them the best way they can. Whether it's severe weather, a tough agriculture economy, or a global pandemic, persevering is the only option we know. It's humbling to be part of this community, and if there's anything I can ever do to help, whether it's responding to the COIVD crisis or dealing with an issue you're having with the federal government, my team and I are here to answer your call.

###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=AE6184DA-55AA-4571-B74F-917962CA493D,Safeguarding South Dakotas Top Industry,2020-08-07,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"While most sectors of our economy were thriving before the coronavirus pandemic hit, farmers and ranchers were struggling. Low prices, extended trade disputes, and natural disasters had meant a tough few years for agriculture producers even before the arrival of the coronavirus. So the pandemic has hit farmers and ranchers particularly hard. Agriculture is the lifeblood of South Dakota, and making sure our agriculture producers have what they need to keep feeding our nation  and the world  is one of my top priorities in Washington.
During debate on the CARES Act  our largest coronavirus relief bill to date  I fought to make sure that we included relief for farmers and ranchers. The final bill included $14 billion to replenish the Commodity Credit Corporation, plus an additional $9.5 billion in emergency support to allow the Department of Agriculture to provide income and price support for farmers and ranchers.
Days after the bill passed, I led a bipartisan group of senators and representatives in a letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, urging him to use a portion of the funds to provide support for hard-hit cattle producers.In mid-April, the Department of Agriculture responded to that letter and other petitions by announcing that it would issue $16 billion in direct payments to agriculture producers, including livestock producers, affected by the virus. Sign-ups for this funding began at the end of May, and according to the most recent data, South Dakota agriculture producers had received approximately $342 million.
The coronavirus relief legislation we passed in late March established the Paycheck Protection Program, which provides forgivable loans to small businesses to help them keep their employees on their payroll during this crisis. Self-employed Americans, which describes many farmers and ranchers, are eligible for these loans. But in practice, the program's guidelines have excluded a lot of agriculture producers. Low commodity prices and a challenging planting season meant that many farmers and ranchers had a negative net income in 2019. And right now the program's guidelines exclude farmers or ranchers without employees with a negative net income for last year.
In June, I introduced the Paycheck Protection for Producers Act, legislation that would allow more farmers to access the Paycheck Protection Program by allowing them to use their 2019 gross income instead of their 2019 net income when applying for a loan. I will continue to advocate for passage of this bill in the Senate, either as part of future coronavirus relief legislation or another bill.
I'm also hoping the Senate will take up my Pandemic Authority Suitable to Utilize Reserve Easements Act  or PASTURE Act  in the near future.This legislation, which I also introduced in June, would provide relief to farmers and ranchers by allowing emergency haying and grazing on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acres for the duration of this crisis.
Under current law, agriculture producers can hay or graze their CRP acres during weather-related disasters without a reduction in their CRP payments. My legislation would extend that provision to cover pandemics, including the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of the pandemic, farmers and ranchers are having to hold onto their livestock for longer than expected. This bill would help ensure that they have adequate forage for their animals.
Another challenge facing farmers during the pandemic is the drop in fuel demand. This is troubling news for the ethanol industry and for employees at shuttered plants, but also for the broader agriculture and rural economy.
As ethanol producers idle production, they will slow their purchases of corn  which will be grim news for corn farmers, who are anxiously keeping an eye on the approaching fall harvest. In addition to supporting direct relief for biofuels, I recently introduced several bills that would support the industry by approving advanced fuel registrations, updating old emissions data that is holding back exports, and extending emergency Food and Drug Administration guidance to ensure ethanol-based hand sanitizer can continue to help fight the pandemic.
The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the vital role American farmers and ranchers play. Without these essential workers, the shortages on shelves during the pandemic would be much worse. We need to ensure that our agriculture producers have the support they need to weather this crisis and continue feeding and fueling our nation. I will continue to do everything I can to help farmers and ranchers through the challenges they're facing.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=B777F900-BC0F-4E12-A10F-07FFC030FA23,"Thune Introduces Bill to Recognize Environmental Benefit of Biofuels, Efficient Farming",2020-08-06,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTONU.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today introduced the Adopt GREET Act,legislationthatwould require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to update its greenhouse gas (GHG) modeling for ethanol and biodiesel.Specifically, the bill would require EPA to adopt either the Argonne National Lab's Greenhouse Gas and Regulated Emissions and Energy Use in Transportation (GREET) Model orthe2019U.S.Department of Agriculture(USDA)methodologywithin 90 days of enactment.For biodiesel, EPA would be required adopt the GREET Model.EPA would then be required to update its modeling every five yearsor report to Congress to affirm its modeling is current or otherwise explain why no updates were made.
Analysis by USDA has found that greenhouse gas emissions from corn-based ethanol are about 43 percent lower than those from conventional gasoline,said Thune.But despite strong bipartisan support for updating its modeling, the EPA still insists on using greenhouse gas reduction data on ethanol from a decade ago, which substantially understates the degree to which current corn-based ethanol reduces emissions. By adopting contemporary greenhouse gas modeling, the EPA would formally recognize the greenhouse gas reductions driven by American biofuels. This would make American biofuels even more attractive to countries implementing clean fuel standards and other programs to lower their emissions. And needless to say, increasing our exports of biofuels would be a shot in the arm to American corn farmers and ethanol producerswhose operations arein jeopardy from the pandemic.
We know ethanol is a low carbon fuel, and Senator Thune's legislation to use sound science to update its carbon footprint at EPA is long overdue,said Lisa Richardson, executive director of South Dakota Corn.
We're pleased to see Senator Thune introduce this legislation to require EPA to adopt the GREET Model or USDA's methodology,said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy.Biofuel plants continue to innovate, and the science on biofuels has dramatically improved. Troves of data show that ethanol significantly reduces greenhouse gases compared to gasoline, and it's long overdue that EPA modernize its modeling to capture the full air quality benefits of cleaner biofuel blends. Biofuels are a cleaner burning, more affordable fuel designed to help combat pollution and reduce the harmful emissions in the air we breathe. Having updated, accurate modeling that better reflects the real-world benefits of higher ethanol blends paves the way for greater access for American drivers.
ACE has long called for adoption of the newest lifecycle science to quantify ethanol's contributions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and we have worked collaboratively with Department of Energy scientists to improve the assumptions used in their GREET model, most notably through the white paper we published in 2018,The Case for Properly Valuing the Low Carbon Benefits of Corn Ethanol,'said Brian Jennings, CEO of theAmerican Coalition for Ethanol (ACE). Current data from the GREET model indicate that corn ethanol's carbon intensity is approximately 50 percent less than petroleum gasoline providing significantly more greenhouse gas reduction benefits than when the RFS was enacted over a decade ago. Senator Thune's legislation is another pointed reminder that EPA must do better in its treatment of ethanol's greenhouse gas benefits compared to gasoline. Updating EPA's antiquated modeling would be a step in the right direction to underpin the scientific and economic opportunity for ethanol use to increase via low carbon fuel markets.
EPA should be using the most recent science and data to accurately show the greenhouse gas emissionreduction benefits of ethanol, said Kevin Ross, president of the National Corn Growers Association.This bill ensures that will happen. Both the GREET model and USDA analysis clearly show that ethanol results in significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline. Ethanol is a low-carbon solution both at home and in export markets and corn farmers thank Senator Thune for his leadership.
We thank Senator Thune for his efforts to ensure future EPA decisions and regulations are based on the best available science and data,said Geoff Cooper, president and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association. The DOE Argonne National Laboratory GREET model has been recognized for decades as the gold standard for analyzing the lifecycle GHG impacts of renewable fuels like ethanol, and the model is regularly updated to reflect efficiency improvements and technological advancements in the ethanol production process. By requiring EPA to throw out its flawed and outdated analysis and replace it with the GREET model, Senator Thune's bill would help restore scientific integrity and accuracy to EPA regulatory actions on renewable fuels.
Thune has recently introduced other bills to support the biofuels industry and farmers. On June 11, 2020, Thune introduced the Hand Sanitizer Guidance Extension Act of 2020 (S. 3938), which would extend for two years the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Temporary Policy for Preparation of Certain Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer Products During the Public Health Emergency. Extending the FDA's guidancewouldgrant additional certainty for ethanol operations that have made investments or changes in operations to serve the current and projected need for hand sanitizer, providing a longer timeline to recoup such costs.Importantly, thiswouldsupport continued production of ethanol for hand sanitizer at a time of high demand and reported shortages to help reduce the transmission of COVID-19. 
On June 17, 2020, Thune introduced a bipartisan bill to approve certain advanced biofuel registrations that have languished before EPA, such as fuels derived from corn kernel fiber technology (S. 3986).Finally approving proven fuelswouldpermit ethanol producers to produce a higher-value fuel with even lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, as well as enable them to utilize at scale the technology and facility investments they have already made.
TheAdopt GREET Actwas cosponsored by Sens.Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa).",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=AD1CFD37-5BF1-4469-AA17-0F804BB5FC34,"Thune, Rounds Introduce Legislation to Improve Snowpack and Drought Monitoring in the Upper Missouri River Basin",2020-08-05,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today introduced legislation that would improve flood monitoring systems and the accuracy of soil moisture and snowpack data. The bill would authorize funding for the Army Corps of Engineers' (Corps') continued installation of a network of weather monitoring stations as well as funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to implement a pilot program to acquire and utilize the data.
Following the historic and devastating flooding across South Dakota in 2011 and 2019, it became clear that more accurate flood prediction and weather forecasting products were needed, said Thune. By authorizing funding to update these monitoring stations and partnering with the state systems, we will have the capability to gather more accurate data and improve not only our flood risk monitoring efforts, but also drought monitoring and weather forecasting generally.
South Dakotans are all too familiar with the devastating impact flooding can have when the river is not properly managed, said Rounds. Since coming to the Senate, I've pushed the Corps of Engineers to implement the snowpack monitoring system that was recommended after the 2011 flood and included in a 2014 water resources bill. And, we've been successful in assuring dozens of monitoring sites scheduled to be operational by next year, with over 400 more in the coming years. Our legislation would force the federal government's hand with the force of law. It will enable the full completion of a system that accurately forecasts snowmelt effects so that the Corps water management team makes the best decisions to protect the people who make their homes in the Missouri River basin.
The Missouri River Basin Drought and Snowpack Monitoring Act' will be viewed as a milestone in American
weather monitoring, said Barry Dunn, president of South Dakota State University. This Act leverages the Missouri River Basin network of State mesonets to help our states' residents better adapt and plan for flooding and drought. It positions South Dakota in a leadership role to set a national standard in total water monitoring. We thank you for the opportunity to provide expert input for the benefit of South Dakotans and our neighbors throughout the Basin.
The Missouri River Basin Drought and Snowpack Monitoring Act would:
 
Provide a funding authorization for the Corps to continue installation of approximately 360 new monitoring stations and upgrade 180 existing stations across the Upper Missouri River Basin.
Establish a pilot program within NOAA requiring the agency to enter into agreements with each of the state mesonet programs in the Upper Missouri River Basin to acquire data collected from the newly established network. NOAA will also be required to utilize the data in various products, including hydrological, forecasting, and drought modeling  in coordination with the Corps, the Department of Agriculture, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the United States Geological Survey.
Require NOAA to submit a report to Congress describing the use of the network's data, the contribution of the new data to various modeling efforts such as the National Water Model and the National Integrated Drought Information System, and the viability of the network structure for future use in other regions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=F0450033-BD94-4D4B-86A8-2920E296ED06,Thune: Democrats Unwillingness to Compromise is Stalling Relief for American People,2020-08-05,2020,2020-08,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protection, and Schools (HEALS) Act, the next coronavirus relief legislation that was introduced by Senate Republicans. Thune expressed his hope that Democrats will put aside their political agenda and work in good faith to find a compromise that will help those Americans who continue to struggle during the ongoing pandemic. 
Click here or on the picture above to watch Thune's speech.
Excerpt of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, last week, Senate Republicans introduced a new coronavirus relief bill  the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protection, and Schools Act.
Our bill is a $1 trillion piece of legislation focused on getting Americans back to work, getting kids and college students back to school, and providing health care resources to help defeat this virus.
Of course, when we introduced this bill, we knew our version wouldn't be the final draft.
We knew we'd need to negotiate with our Democrat colleagues  just like we did with the CARES Act, our largest coronavirus relief bill, back in March.
Back in March, committee chairmen and ranking members got together and compromised and worked out differences, and we ended up with a strong, bipartisan bill.
Was it a perfect bill? No.
Did everyone get everything he or she wanted? No.
But it was a strong, bipartisan bill that was praised by Democrats and Republicans alike.
Mr. President, I'd like to say that we're engaging in those same types of negotiations right now.
But I'm not sure you can call what's happening right now negotiations.
Negotiations involve both sides being willing to give something up, to compromise, to move toward a solution.
And while Republicans are willing to make compromises to ensure that we can deliver another coronavirus relief bill to the American people, Democrats apparently aren't willing to make any.
Back in May, House Democrats passed a massive $3.4 trillion piece of legislation that they called a coronavirus relief bill.
In reality, it was a lengthy liberal wish list, which even members of Democrats' own party dismissed as dead on arrival.
In fact, Democrats had some work to do to persuade members of their own caucus to vote for the bill.
Or as Politico put it at the time, As of late Thursday evening, the House Democratic leadership was engaged in what a few senior aides and lawmakers described as the most difficult arm-twisting of the entire Congress: convincing their rank and file to vote for a $3 trillion stimulus bill that will never become law.
The House bill includes various coronavirus priorities like a soil health study, funding for diversity and inclusion studies in the marijuana industry, tax cuts for blue-state millionaires, and federalizing elections.
In fact, the House bill mentions the word cannabis more often than it mentions the word job  which tells you all you need to know about the seriousness of this proposal.
Despite all this, Mr. President, Democrat leaders have taken the House bill as their starting  and ending  point for negotiation.
They're insisting that Republicans sign off on pretty much everything in their bill  from tax cuts for wealthy Americans to major changes to election law.
And they're not budging on the price tag either.
Mr. President, as I said, Republicans have proposed a $1 trillion piece of legislation.
The price tag for Democrats' bill is $3.4 trillion.
Now I think even an elementary school student would realize that compromise lies somewhere between those two numbers  more than Republicans' bill, and less than Democrats' bill.
But apparently that's not something Democrats are willing to entertain.
A senior correspondent for CNN talked to Speaker Pelosi yesterday, who claimed she wanted to reach agreement on a bill this week.
The correspondent asked the speaker what price tag she was willing to agree to.
Her answer?
$3.4 trillion.
In other words, Mr. President, after more than a week of negotiations, the speaker of the House hasn't budged from her original position.
She hasn't budged.
Mr. President, that is not compromise.
That is not negotiation.
And if we emerge from this process without a coronavirus relief bill, the responsibility will rest squarely on the shoulders of the Democrat leadership.
Let's suppose for a moment that Republican negotiators agreed to every single thing Democrats are insisting on.
Tax cuts for millionaires.
Diversity studies for the marijuana industry.
A trillion-dollar pot of money for states  who haven't even come close to spending the coronavirus money the government has already given them.
Let's suppose Republican negotiators agreed to everything.
What would happen then?
Well, Mr. President, the bill would never pass the Senate.
In the Senate, you need 60 votes to pass a bill.
And there simply aren't 60 votes in the Senate for Democrats' liberal fantasies.
Mr. President, it would be lovely if, as Democrats seem to think, the government drew its funding from a magical pot of gold that never runs out.
But it doesn't.
Every dollar of the coronavirus relief we've already provided has been borrowed money, which has driven up our national debt.
Now, it was money we needed to borrow.
But there has to be a limit.
The higher we drive our national debt, the greater the danger to the health of our economy.
Democrats may be fine with jeopardizing our economic health to pay for diversity studies in the marijuana industry, but Republicans are not.
Republicans know that we are going to have to borrow additional money to meet the demands of the coronavirus crisis.
And we've offered legislation to do just that.
But we're not going to further endanger our already battered economy by signing off on every unnecessary spending item on Democrats' liberal fantasy list.
Now, are Republicans going to have to agree to some things we're not crazy about?
Of course we are.
But Democrats are going to have to accept that they can't dictate every word of this bill.
Mr. President, the ball is in Democrats' court.
Republicans want to pass a coronavirus relief bill.
And we're ready to negotiate.
But Democrats are going to have to decide that they want to come to the table.
Our way or the highway' is not a negotiating position.
And if Democrats continue to insist on getting everything they want, they are going to be responsible for Congress' failure to deliver additional relief.
I hope  I really hope  that the Democrat leadership will remember what it means to negotiate and will work with Republicans to arrive at a compromise bill that can make it through both houses of Congress and actually become law.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=4EF54823-A2EA-4BA1-9E51-A4FBB3D83513,The Work Goes On,2020-07-31,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"While the Senate continues to carefully monitor the implementation of our COVID relief efforts, listen to and learn from states and communities, evaluate where future health and economic assistance might be required, and develop targeted proposals to help those in need, we're also focused on other issues that are important to the American people. We can walk and chew gum at the same time, as the old saying goes.
In recent weeks and months, the Senate approved its version of the National Defense Authorization Act, which supports our military men and women and their families, passed the Great American Outdoors Act, a major lands bill that will help clear maintenance backlogs at national parks in South Dakota, and confirmed executive branch nominations and lifetime judicial branch nominations to federal benches around the country.
We've also continued a lot of the behind-the-scenes committee work that vets nominees and prepares legislation for future consideration on the Senate floor. I serve on the Finance Committee, Agriculture Committee, and Commerce Committee, and I'm the chairman of the Subcommittee on Taxation and IRS Oversight and the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet (CTII).
I recently convened a pair of hearings at the CTII subcommittee, which is the only subcommittee that's comprised of every member of the full Commerce Committee. The high interest in serving on the subcommittee is a testament to its focus on a wide range of issues that affect Americans in every corner of the United States, especially South Dakota.
For example, bridging the digital divide is critical for rural America, and it's something I've been fighting to accomplish for years. While the divide has gotten smaller, there's still more work to do, which is why one of my recent CTII hearings focused on the public and private sectors' coordinated effort when it comes to federal spectrum management.
Think of spectrum as the airwaves over which information flows to and from internet- or Bluetooth-connected devices. Without effective spectrum management, the race to 5G becomes far more difficult, and rural America ultimately ends up paying the price. This issue will continue to be at the forefront of my subcommittee's agenda.
I also convened a hearing to examine a bipartisan bill I helped introduce, the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act, which would help strengthen online platform transparency when platforms like Facebook or Twitter moderate content posted by their users. The PACT Act would also hold large technology companies accountable for illegal content or material that violates their own policies. At its core, the PACT Act is about providing digital consumers with the online control and protection they deserve.
Continuing the nationwide battle against the coronavirus will undoubtedly be one of Congress's top priorities this year, but, as you can see, we've got a lot of important issues on our plate. Regardless of what's in front of us in Washington, though, I will always fight for South Dakota's values and put the interests of our state ahead of everything else.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-johnson-announces-congressional-app-challenge,Rep. Johnson Announces Congressional App Challenge,2020-07-30,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) today announced South Dakota's first Congressional App Challenge (CAC), an app competition for students in middle and high school across the country.

The CAC accepts computer programs (or apps) written in any programming language, for any platform (desktop/PC, web, mobile, raspberry Pi, etc.).

The Challenge's submission portal is now open. Students must register online by September 10th and submit their app by October 19th. The competition welcomes all students who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of coding experience.

The House of Representatives encourages students of all skill levels to participate in the Congressional App Challenge. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges in South Dakota and honored by South Dakota's Congressional office. Winning apps will be featured on display in the U.S. Capitol building and on the Congressional App Challenge website.

""The Congressional App Challenge was created because Congress recognized STEM and computer science skills are essential for economic growth,"" said Johnson. ""The U.S. has been falling behind on these fronts, and we have a programmer shortage. These are high-paying, high-demand jobs. To maintain American competitiveness, it's crucial that the United States invests in our youth now and helps them acquire these valuable skills.""

For further information about the Congressional App Challenge and to register for the competition, please visit www.CongressionalAppChallenge.us.

##",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:18:24Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=294ACE96-9360-485A-AF73-0531FDFFFA4C,Thune: PACT Act Would Increase Internet Accountability and Consumer Transparency,2020-07-29,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, today discussed the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act, bipartisan legislation he introduced with Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) to address some of the issues surrounding Section 230 and user-generated content sites, like consumer protection for online platform users.Yesterday, Thune led a subcommittee hearing to examine online platforms' content moderation practices and to discuss what legislative measures can be taken to ensure consumers are protected and empowered while on the internet. During the hearing, one of the original authors of the Section 230 provision, former Representative Chris Cox, confirmed that the PACT Act could go a long way toward making user-generated internet sites more accountable to consumers. 

Excerpt of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, yesterday, in my role as head of the Commerce Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, I led a hearing looking at proposed reforms to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act.
So what is Section 230?
Well, Section 230 provides internet sites that hostuser-generated content  sites like YouTube or Twitter or Facebook  with immunity for the content users post on their sites.
So, for example, if somebody uploads a YouTube video with defamatory content, YouTube isn't held responsible for that content.
It's not unfair to say that Section 230 has enabled the internet as we know it.
Without Section 230 protections, many of the sites we rely on for social connection or news or entertainment would never have come into being.
If a solo blogger, for example, could be held responsible for monitoring each and every comment on his or her site, no matter how many hundreds or thousands there are, it's unlikely blogging would ever have taken off.
And if YouTube were responsible for the content of every one of the millions of videos on its site  well, it's unlikely YouTube would have grown the way it has.
There's a reason user-generated sites like Twitter and Facebook are U.S. companies and not, for example, European companies.
And that's because other countries do not offer the liability protections of Section 230.
But Section 230 was written in the infancy of the internet  long before sites like Twitter and Facebook were created  and as we've seen the internet grow, we've come to realize that there are also some changes that need to be made.
For example, while I support the principle that sites should not be held responsible for everything users generate, there's a difference between an inappropriate video a site misses and a site that knowingly allows itself to be used for criminal purposes.
In 2018, after it became obvious that certain sites were knowingly allowing themselves to be used by child traffickers and predators, Congress passed a law to hold these and other sites responsible for enabling child sex trafficking.
As the previous chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee and current chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, I've been focusing on internet issues related to user-generated content sites for the past couple of years.
I've chaired several hearings on the topic, including a hearing on terrorist content on sites like Twitter and Facebook and a hearing on the opaque algorithms that these sites use to filter the content users see.
And at the end of June, Senator Schatz and I introduced legislation  the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency Act, or PACT Act  to address some of the issues surrounding Section 230 and user-generated content sites.
Our bill would preserve the benefits of Section 230  like the internet growth and widespread dissemination of free speech it has enabled  while increasing accountability and consumer transparency.
One reason Section 230 has become so controversial is that internet platforms have actively cultivated the notion that they are merely providing the technology for people to communicate and share their thoughts and ideas.
But the reality is somewhat different.
The truth is, websites have a strong incentive to exercise control over the content each of us sees, because if they can present us with content that will keep us engaged, we will stay on that site longer.
Today, sites like Facebook and Twitter make use of sophisticated content moderation tools, algorithms, and recommendation engines to shape the content we see on these platforms. 
Now,moderation can certainly improve the user experience.
Most of us would prefer that YouTube suggest videos that match our interests, rather than something completely unrelated.
The problem is that content moderation has been  and largely continues to be  a black box, with consumers having little or no idea how the information they see has been shaped by the sites they're visiting.
The PACT Act would address this problem by increasing transparency around the content moderation process.
It would require internet platforms like Facebook and Twitter to submit quarterly reports to the Federal Trade Commission outlining material they've removed from their sites or chosen to deemphasize (for example, posts they've chosen to mostly exclude from users' feeds).
Sites would also be required to provide an easily digestible disclosure of their content moderation practices for users.
And, importantly, they would be required to explain their decisions to remove material to consumers.
Until relatively recently, sites like Facebook and Twitter would remove a user's post without explanation and without an appeals process.
And even as platforms start to shape up their act with regard to transparency and due process, it's still hard for users to get good information about how content is moderated.
Under the PACT Act, if a site chooses to remove your post, it has to tell you why it decided to remove your post and explain how your post violated the site's terms of use.
The PACT Act would also require sites to create an appeals process  so if Facebook, for example, removes one of your posts, it would not only have to tell you why, but it would have to provide a way for you to appeal that decision.
To some extent, some platforms like Facebook are already starting to do this, but by no means are all of them doing so.
The PACT Act would preserve companies' 230 protections for material posted on their sites, but it would require companies to remove material that has been adjudicated as illegal by a court.
Large sites like Facebook and Twitter would be required to remove illegal content within 24 hours, while smaller sites would be given additional time.
Failure to remove illegal material would result in the site's losing its 230 protections for that content or activity  a provision that matches a recent recommendation made by the Department of Justice for Section 230 reform.
Finally, Mr. President, in addition to promoting transparency and accountability, the PACT Act also contains measures to strengthen the government's ability to protect consumers.
As the Department of Justice has noted in its recommendations to reform Section 230, broad Section 230 immunity can pose challenges for federal agencies in civil enforcement matters.
It is questionable whether Section 230 was intended to allow companies to invoke Section 230 immunity against the federal government acting to protect American consumers in the civil enforcement context.
This contributes to the creation of a different set of rules for enforcing consumer protections against online companies, compared to those in the offline world. 
Mr. President, I'm grateful to Senator Schatz for his work on this bill, and I'm proud of what we've put together.
We've both done a lot of work on these issues, and this bill is a serious, bipartisan solution to some of the problems that have arisen around Section 230.
Our hearing yesterday  which included one of the original authors of the Section 230 provision, former Representative Chris Cox  confirmed that the PACT Act could go a long way toward making user-generated internet sites more accountable to consumers. 
I look forward to working with Senator Schatz to advance our legislation in the Senate, and I hope we'll see a vote on our bill in the near future.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3DC8A420-806D-4448-A6BC-58E1B15BBAC3,New COVID-19 Relief Package Includes Thune Provision for Remote and Mobile Workers,2020-07-28,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed his Remote and Mobile Worker Relief Act, a bipartisan provision included in the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protection, and Schools (HEALS) Act, the next coronavirus relief package that Senate Republicans introduced yesterday. Thune's provision would ensure medical professionals from around the country who supported areas hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic do not face unexpected or increased state income tax bills. The provision would also address potential problems remote workers are facing during the pandemic, including the possibility of having their state income taxes become out of balance because they worked from home in a different state than their ordinary place of employment during the pandemic. 

Excerpt of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, yesterday I was privileged to be able to pay my respects to Representative John Lewis as he lies in state in the Capitol Rotunda  a fitting place for an American hero.
His death is a loss, but his dauntless courage and deep conviction have carved out for him a permanent place in American history.
When we tell stories of those who have made America greater, John Lewis's name will always be among them.
Mr. President, yesterday Senate Republicans introduced the next phase of our coronavirus relief effort  the Health, Economic Assistance, Liability Protection, and Schools Act, or HEALS Act.
This bill has been carefully targeted to address the most pressing issues facing our nation right now  getting kids back to school, getting workers back to work, and ensuring that we have the health care resources necessary to defeat this virus.
The HEALS Act will provide economic incentives to help businesses retain workers.
It will give additional support to hard-hit small businesses.
It will provide checks to American families to help them weather the economic challenges they're facing.
It will give schools more than $100 billion to help them safely reopen, so kids and college students aren't missing out on the academic, social, and emotional benefits of in-person learning.
It will direct funds to diagnosis, treatment, and vaccines.
It will ensure that medical professionals, small businesses, and school districts doing their best to protect Americans don't face frivolous lawsuits from predatory trial lawyers.
It will provide incentives for manufacturing personal protective equipment in the United States, to help ensure that we never again face the kind of shortages we've seen with the coronavirus.
And more.
Now it's time for Democrats to come to the negotiating table so that we can arrive at a bipartisan bill and get this relief into the hands of Americans.
I was disappointed to hear the Democrat leader's partisan screeds yesterday and today on the Senate floor  although I did appreciate his ability to, with a straight face, simultaneously characterize Republican relief efforts as insufficient while touting a House bill that mentions the word cannabis more often than the word job and contains less money for schools than Republicans' legislation.
Mr. President, no one is going to get everything they want with this bill.
And Democrats are not going to be able to implement their socialist wish list.
But if we work together, we can get real relief into the hands of Americans.
I hope Democrats will join us.
Mr. President, during New York's toughest moments during the pandemic, medical professionals from around the country came to hard-hit New York City to help.
They formed an essential part of the city's medical response, and they undoubtedly saved lives.
They are deserving of New York's profound gratitude.
And apparently of something else: tax bills.
That's right.
In May, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that New York would be levying income tax on any money these medical professionals made while they were there.
Now, individuals can generally receive a tax credit in their home state for income tax paid to another state, thus avoiding double taxation of their income.
But since New York has one of the highest income taxes in the country, a lot of these medical professionals will be facing a higher than normal tax bill on any money they earned in New York.
The situation is even worse for residents of states without an income tax, like my home state of South Dakota.
Medical professionals from those states will simply have to absorb the full cost of this unexpected bill.
Mr. President, the health care workers who traveled to New York are not alone in facing a complicated tax situation.
For Americans who regularly spend limited time working in different states throughout the year, the situation can be even worse.
A traveling nurse, for example, or a corporate trainer might work in not just one but several additional states during a given year.
And navigating the resulting income tax situation can be incredibly complicated.
Some states  like New York  aggressively tax individuals they deem to have earned income within their borders  even if the income in question is just the salary they earn from their employer while attending a two-day training conference in the state.
Other states allow nonresidents to work for a longer period  as long as 60 days in some cases  before they require the individual to file an income tax return.
Navigating different states' requirements can be a real burden for both employees and employers, and discourage interstate commerce.
It's particularly challenging for smaller businesses, who frequently lack the in-house tax staff and tracking capabilities of larger organizations.
The situation cries out for a solution.
And for the past four Congresses, I've introduced legislation  the Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act  to create a uniform standard for mobile workers.
Under my bill, if you spent 30 days or fewer working in a different state, you would be taxed as normal by your home state.
If you spent more than 30 days working in a different state, you would be subject to that other state's income tax in addition to income tax from your home state.
Having a universal rule like this would make life a lot easier for workers and employers.
In June, I introduced an updated version of my Mobile Workforce bill  the Remote and Mobile Worker Relief Act  which I am pleased to announce has been included in the HEALS Act, the Phase IV coronavirus relief package Republicans introduced yesterday.
Like my original Mobile Workforce bill, the Remote and Mobile Worker Relief Act would create a uniform 30-day standard governing state income tax liability for mobile workers.
But my new bill goes further and addresses some of the particular challenges faced by mobile and remote workers as a result of the coronavirus.
The Remote and Mobile Worker Relief Act would establish a special 90-day standard for health care workers who travel to another state to help during the pandemic.
This should ensure that no health care worker faces an unexpected tax bill for the contributions he or she makes to fighting the coronavirus.
My new bill also addresses the possible tax complications that could face remote workers as a result of the pandemic.
During the coronavirus crisis, many workers who usually travel to their offices every day have ended up working from home.
This doesn't present a tax problem for most employees, but it does present a possible problem for workers who live in a different state than the one they work in.
Workers who live in a different state from the one they work in are subject to income tax from both states, but under current state tax laws they usually pay most or all of their state income taxes to the state in which they earn their income, rather than their state of residence.
However, now that some workers who usually work in a different state have been working from home, there's a risk that their state of residence could consider the resulting income as allocated to and taxable by it as well.
That could mean a higher tax bill for a lot of workers.
My bill would preempt this problem by codifying the pre-pandemic status quo.
Under my bill, if you planned to work in North Carolina but had to work from home in South Carolina during the pandemic, your income would still be taxed as if you were going in to the office in North Carolina every day, just as it would have been if the pandemic had never happened.
Mr. President, relief for mobile workers is a bipartisan idea.
A version of my original Mobile Workforce bill has passed the House of Representatives multiple times, and the only reason it hasn't advanced so far in the Senate is because of the opposition of a handful of states that aggressively tax temporary workers.
Now that the pandemic has highlighted the challenges facing mobile workers  and the potential challenges facing remote workers  I am pleased that my legislation will be considered here in the Senate as part of the broader coronavirus relief package we hope to pass in the next couple of weeks.
And I'm grateful to Chairman Grassley for his support of this legislation.
It is unconscionable that we would allow health care workers who risked their own lives to care for individuals in coronavirus-stricken states to be punished with unexpected tax bills.
And we need to make sure that Americans who worked from home to help slow the spread of the virus don't face a complicated tax situation  or an unexpectedly high tax bill  as a result.
Americans have faced enough challenges over the past several months.
Let's make sure that tax problems are not among them.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=465D76D2-494C-43D7-A453-1F2F17616254,Thune: Digital Consumers Deserve and Expect Adequate Online Control and Protection,2020-07-28,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, today led a hearing titled, The PACT Act and Section 230: The Impact of the Law that Helped Create the InternetandanExamination of Proposed Reforms for Today's Online World, to examine online platforms' content moderation practices and to discuss what legislative measures can be taken to ensure consumers are protected and empowered while on the internet. During the hearing, Thune questioned experts on transparency requirements that could be used to protect consumers online.
The reality is that the platforms have a strong incentive to exercise control over the content each of us sees, because if they can present us with content that will keep us engaged on the platform, we will stay on the platform longer, said Thune.Moderation is an important function that platforms must provide in order to deliver a valuable experience to their users.Unfortunately, it's hard for users to get good information about how content is moderated. The Internet has evolved significantly since Section 230 was enacted. Long gone are the days of the online bulletin boards.Today, internet platforms have sophisticated content moderation tools, algorithms, and recommendation engines to promote content and connect users, all optimized toward keeping every user engaged on the platform. The platforms have monetized these systems through targeted advertising and related businesses and have consequently become some of the largest companies in the world.Moreover, these platforms have become essential to our daily lives, as many Americans live, work, and communicate increasingly online.
On June 24, 2020, Thune joined Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), ranking member of the subcommittee, in introducing thePlatform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act, bipartisan legislation to update Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. The PACT Act would strengthen transparency in the process online platforms use to moderate content and hold those companies accountable for content that violates their own policies or is illegal.

Thune's full remarks (as prepared for delivery):
I want to thank everyone for being here today, both virtually and in-person.
We are here to examine the legacy of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which was enacted into law 24 years ago, and to discuss a proposal Senator Schatz and I have introduced to reform Section 230, known as the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency Act, or PACT Act.
Section 230 was written to protect internet platforms both large and small from being held liable for user-generated content while also enabling these platforms to take an active role in moderating such content. The sweeping nature of these protections, coupled with expansive readings by the courts, has come to mean that, with few exceptions, internet platforms are not liable for the comments, pictures, and videos that their users and subscribers post, no matter how harmful.
As one of our witnesses here today has written in what he calls his biography of Section 230, the law's proposal and passage flew under the radar back in 1996, receiving virtually no opposition or media coverage. Today, however, Section 230 is the subject of intense debate and media scrutiny, to the extent that both the President of the United States, and his likely competitor in this fall's election, have called for the complete repeal of Section 230.
One of many variables that has sparked the intense debate about Section 230 is that internet platforms have actively cultivated the notion that they are merely providing the technology for people to communicate and share their thoughts and ideas. Therefore, until only relatively recently, the platforms largely concealedor at the very least failed to disclosetheir moderation and curation systems to sustain this fiction of being a neutral platform for all ideas. Content moderation has beenand largely continues to bea black box, which has led to deep suspicion by many users about bias and discrimination.
The reality is that the platforms have a strong incentive to exercise control over the content each of us sees, because if they can present us with content that will keep us engaged on the platform, we will stay on the platform longer. Moderation is an important function that platforms must provide in order to deliver a valuable experience to their users. Unfortunately, it's hard for users to get good information about how content is moderated.
The Internet has evolved significantly since Section 230 was enacted. Long gone are the days of the online bulletin boards. Today, internet platforms have sophisticated content moderation tools, algorithms, and recommendation engines to promote content and connect users, all optimized toward keeping every user engaged on the platform. The platforms have monetized these systems through targeted advertising and related businesses and have consequently become some of the largest companies in the world. Moreover, these platforms have become essential to our daily lives, as many Americans live, work, and communicate increasingly online.
That is why it is important to recognize that the benefits of Section 230 for companies have come with tradeoffs for consumers. As the Department of Justice has noted in its recommendations to reform Section 230, broad Section 230 immunity can pose challenges for federal agencies in civil enforcement matters. It is questionable whether Section 230 was intended to allow companies to invoke immunity against the federal government acting to protect American consumers in the civil enforcement context. This has contributed to the creation of a different set of rules for enforcing consumer protections against online companies, compared to those in the offline world. 
In addition, disparate complaint intake and transparency reporting practices between internet companies have led to a limited ability for consumers to address and correct harms that occur online.
And as Americans conduct more and more of their activities online, the net outcome is an increasingly less protected and more vulnerable consumer.
The Internet of 1996 is a far cry from the Internet of 2020, and as Americans exist increasingly online  a trend now being accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic as illustrated by the fact that each of our witnesses is attending virtually today  re-evaluating Section 230 within today's context will ensure its protections continue to balance the interests of both consumers and companies.
Against this backdrop, the bill Senator Schatz and I have introduced would update Section 230 to enable greater transparency and accountability for users without damaging its foundational economic, innovative, and entrepreneurial benefit that helped allow the internet to flourish in the first place.
The PACT Act would require companies that moderate content to provide a clear and easily accessible user policy that explains how, when, and why user-generated content might be removed.
It would also require these online platforms to create a defined complaint system that processes reports and notifies users of moderation decisions within 14 days.
Our legislation would require large technology companies to have a toll-free customer service phone line with live customer support to take customer complaints.
This requirement is geared toward consumers who are less familiar with technology, and those in marginalized communities who may not have readily available access to technology, but who want or need to talk to a real person about a complaint about content on a service or platform.
The PACT Act would also hold platforms accountable for their content moderation practices by requiring them to submit quarterly reports to the Federal Trade Commission outlining material they've removed from their sites or chosen to deemphasize.
In addition, the PACT Act would make clear that the immunity provided by Section 230 does not apply to civil enforcement actions brought by the federal government. The PACT Act would also make clear that Section 230 does not apply where a platform is provided with a court order finding that content is unlawful. Both of these provisions are also recommendations that the Department of Justice recently put forward in its recent review of Section 230.
At its core, Section 230 reform is about balancing the consumer's need for transparency and accountability against internet companies' need for flexibility and autonomy.
I believe the PACT Act strikes the right balance and I am committed to achieving a meaningful, bipartisan approach to Section 230 reform that can be enacted into law sooner rather than later.
However, I recognize that the Internet is complex, and any meaningful regulation must consider various perspectives from diverse groups in academia, civil society, and industry.
Consequently, we have brought together today a very distinguished panel, and I am confident the conversation will help ensure we are reforming Section 230 in the right way. Each of our witnesses has deep expertise in both the original intent of Section 230 and how it has been interpreted by the courts over the years.
Today, we are joined by Former Representative Chris Cox, the co-author of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act; Jeff Kosseff, Assistant Professor of Cyber Science at the United States Naval Academy; Elizabeth Banker, Deputy General Counsel of the Internet Association; and Olivier Sylvain, Professor of Law at Fordham School of Law.
Thank you each for your participation on this important topic.
I now recognize Ranking Member Schatz for any opening remarks he may have.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-spanberger-introduce-bill-strengthen-telehealth,"Johnson, Spanberger Introduce Bill to Strengthen Telehealth",2020-07-28,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.-AL) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) introduced the COVID-19 Telehealth Program Extension Act to appropriate additional funds to the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC's) COVID-19 Telehealth Program authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

On April 2, 2020, the FCC announced the program and set the maximum award at $1 million. Due to the popularity of the program, on June 25th, FCC announced it would no longer accept applications from providers for funding from the program. On July 8th, FCC announced the release of the final tranche of approved funding applications from the original $200 million appropriation through the CARES Act. South Dakota health care providers were recipients of the program.

The COVID-19 Telehealth Program Extension Act would add an additional $200 million to the program. Last week, Johnson and Spanberger led 41 bipartisan members asking for additional data on the program and ways to strengthen our nations telehealth.

""South Dakota has seen the benefits of expanding telehealth firsthand,"" said Johnson. ""It's easy, it's quick, and it protects vulnerable populations seeking health care during this worldwide health crisis. South Dakota patients deserve quality care and our bill would provide the resources needed to strengthen additional telehealth programs in South Dakota and across the country.""

""During a public health crisis, families, seniors, and veterans need to have reliable access to their doctors and caregivers. Telehealth has provided a solution for thousands of Central Virginians to receive the high-quality care they need, while still taking precautions to protect themselves and their families from COVID-19,"" said Spanberger. ""Telehealth has clearly demonstrated its importance and its popularity during the pandemic, and our COVID-19 Telehealth Program Extension Act recognizes the role this technology should continue to play as we see a resurgence of the virus in communities across the country. I'd like to thank my friend and colleague Congressman Johnson for joining me in introducing this pressing legislation, and I look forward to moving this legislation forward and making sure rural patients and providers aren't left behind.""

""Avera Health greatly appreciates Congressman Johnson's and Congresswoman Spanberger's support of telehealth through this bill. This program is essential for expanding the number of patients that can be served through telehealth at one time. Rural health care services are typically provided by a small community of physicians, emergency nurses, and specialty providers who serve the medical needs of local and area residents. Telehealth can help extend resources when demand puts a strain on local resources. Telehealth adds support to providers and patients with chronic illnesses, who are considered high-risk for developing severe cases of COVID-19. Through the enhanced telehealth access funded by the Wireline Competition Bureau's COVID-19 Telehealth Program, access to collegial support will be available for local providers in a variety of situations, such as when patient numbers surge, when providers are busy seeing patients elsewhere, or when local facilities are temporarily short-staffed."" Danielle Hamann, Avera Health Director of Public Policy

""Our coalition of Community Health Centers (CHCs) across South Dakota, North Dakota and Wyoming, called the Great Plains Health Data Network, were excited to receive $443,417 to support telehealth and technology-enabled health care from the Federal Communications Commission. Community Health Centers (CHCs), like many health care providers, were asked to dramatically shift their approach to health care in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. At our peak, about 45 percent of health care visits across health centers in the Dakotas were conducted using telehealth technology. Resources from the FCC will enable us to continue to use technology to meet patients where they are, utilize best practices for supporting preventive and coordinated care, and to keep patients safe during the pandemic."" Shelly Ten Napel, CEO of the Community HealthCare Association of the Dakotas

""The rising importance of telehealth services is particularly important in our rural areas,"" said Rick Shinn, Director of Government Affairs, Virginia Community Healthcare Association. ""We applaud Rep. Spanberger and her colleagues on moving forward to bring telehealth services into the mainstream of healthcare.""

Click here to read the full bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:18:24Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-gianforte-demand-hhs-strip-convicted-pedophile-government-pension,"Johnson, Gianforte Demand HHS Strip Convicted Pedophile of Government Pension",2020-07-27,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Greg Gianforte (R-MT) urged the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to hold convicted pedophile and former Indian Health Service (IHS) pediatrician Stanley Patrick Weber fully accountable for his actions. The Representatives demanded HHS take quick action to revoke Mr. Weber's government pension after an investigation reported the felon, convicted of child sexual abuse, was still receiving his pension.

""Over the past few years, the American public has been shocked and horrified to learn about the appalling crimes against children perpetrated by Stanley Patrick Weber during his lengthy tenure at IHS. Despite multiple concerns and allegations throughout his tenure at IHS hospitals in Montana and South Dakota, IHS and the Public Health Service (PHS) allowed Mr. Weber to continue treating young Native American boys. These children were often disadvantaged, and Mr. Weber actions were a despicable abuse of authority and control. Thankfully, Mr. Weber has finally been put where he belongs: behind bars,"" said Johnson and Gianforte.

""By allowing Mr. Weber to continue to collect his pension, the PHSCC has not held him fully responsible for his actions. We urge that the agency to convene the board of inquiry and take quick action to revoke Mr. Weber's government pension.""

The text of the full letter here and below:

Dear Secretary Azar and Surgeon General Adams,

We write to you today regarding the government pension of convicted pedophile and former Indian Health Service (IHS) pediatrician Stanley Patrick Weber. Despite Mr. Weber's guilty conviction, his pension from the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (PHSCC) reportedly continues.

Over the past few years, the American public has been shocked and horrified to learn about the appalling crimes against children perpetrated by Stanley Patrick Weber during his lengthy tenure at IHS. Despite multiple concerns and allegations throughout his tenure at IHS hospitals in Montana and South Dakota, IHS and the Public Health Service (PHS) allowed Mr. Weber to continue treating young Native American boys. These children were often disadvantaged, and Mr. Weber actions were a despicable abuse of authority and control. Thankfully, Mr. Weber has finally been put where he belongs: behind bars.

Unfortunately, according to an article by PBS Frontline, as of Wednesday, July 22nd, Mr. Weber continues to receive his pension from the PHS, which is estimated to be worth approximately $100,000 a year. Furthermore, more than a year ago, the PHSCC stated that it would convene a board of inquiry to review whether to strip Mr. Weber of his pension. A spokeswoman for the agency recently declined to say if the board has met.

By allowing Mr. Weber to continue to collect his pension, the PHSCC has not held him fully responsible for his actions. We urge that the agency to convene the board of inquiry and take quick action to revoke Mr. Weber's government pension.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:18:24Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=B5104BD6-A6BD-42EA-8C7A-2DCE55DC1808,Defending Those Who Defend America,2020-07-24,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"The Senate recently completed consideration of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)  annual legislation to authorize funding for our military and national defense. Like the last two NDAAs, this year's bill focuses on restoring military readiness and ensuring that our nation is prepared to meet threats posed by major powers like Russia and China.
A lot of people tend to take it for granted that we have the strongest military in the world. But the truth is, years of underfunding and budgetary uncertainty, combined with heavy operational demands, left our military under-equipped, under-manned, and under-prepared to meet the threats of the 21st century.
In November 2018, the bipartisan National Defense Strategy Commission released a report warning that our readiness had eroded to the point where we might struggle to win a war against a major power like Russia or China.And the commission noted that we would be especially vulnerable if we were ever called on to fight a war on two fronts. Over the past two years, we've made real progress on restoring military readiness. But we still have more work to do.
This year's NDAA continues our investment in ensuring that our military is prepared to meet current and future threats  in any domain. In particular, it focuses on implementing the National Defense Strategy by building on the work we've done to ensure our country is prepared to counter the threat posed by great powers. Most notably, the bill establishes the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, which will act as a check on Chinese aggression in the Pacific region. It will help ensure that American troops are better prepared to meet threats in that area of the world. And it will send a clear message to China that America is committed to the security of our allies in the Pacific and keeping global waterways open and free.
No matter what weapons or ships or technology we have, our greatest resource will always be the men and women of the United States military. And we have an obligation to them  and to their families  to ensure that they have all the resources they need to meet the threats we ask them to face. We also need to make sure that we are supporting a high quality of life for our military members and their families.
This year's NDAA supports a 3 percent pay raise for our troops. It also builds on previous measures to improve military health care and housing. And it contains measures to support families in areas like child care and professional development for military spouses. Recognizing that our obligation to the men and women in uniform continues beyond their service, it also expands presumptive coverage for Agent Orange exposure.
The NDAA is one of the most important pieces of legislation we pass every year, a sentiment underscored by the fact that our adversaries have been making significant investments in their militaries  making their goals clear to not only challenge the United States and our allies, but intimidate their neighbors and expand their spheres of influence. Alarmingly, we have seen such aggressive activity include attempting to steal medical data and coronavirus vaccine research, threats that necessitate the expanded investment in cyber capabilities provided in the NDAA.
This NDAA likewise continues our military modernization efforts. I'm honored to represent Ellsworth Air Force Base in the U.S. Senate, and as we look forward with great anticipation to the future B-21 bomber mission, I am committed to helping the base prepare for their arrival. This will not only include investments in base infrastructure, but also working to optimize the Powder River Training Complex airspace to ensure adequate space for realistic combat training.
While the Senate has passed its bill, we have more work ahead of us, and I look forward to working with my colleagues of both parties to advance this NDAA and get our military men and women the resources they need to defend our nation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=7E2D7196-620A-44AC-B9FA-4D4E054B9132,Thune Statement on Senate Passage of Pro-Troop Defense Bill,2020-07-23,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today issued the following statement after the Senate overwhelmingly approved the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), annual legislation that authorizes funding for the U.S. military and national defense.
The NDAA is an important step forward in making sure our troops have the resources they need to protect Americans and are prepared to meet threats posed by major world powers like Russia and China or rogue nations like North Korea and Iran, said Thune. I'm glad the Senate was able to work together to pass this bill in a bipartisan manner, andI'm grateful for Senator Inhofe's leadership on this legislation. As we look to getting this bill through conference and to the president's desk, I will continue working to support our troops, including the South Dakota Army and Air National Guard, and readying Ellsworth Air Force Base for the future B-21 mission.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=B83859F7-F551-459C-8EBC-7FC6C89EA610,Thune: Effective Spectrum Policymaking Will Benefit Rural America and Help Win the Race to 5G,2020-07-23,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, today led a hearing titled, The State of Spectrum Policy, to examine the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC's) and National Telecommunications and Information Administration's (NTIA's) role in spectrum management and policymaking. During the hearing, Thune questioned industry experts on new ways to improve the spectrum policymaking process in order to generate peak potential for consumers.
Spectrum is the lifeblood of wireless communications, said Thune.Next-generation wireless networks require efficient and effective use of low, mid, and high bands of spectrum. If we do not have proper management of this limited resource, we simply won't have enough of the right kinds of spectrum available. And in the global race to deploy next-generation networks and services, we have a responsibility to furnish Americans with the spectrum-fueled 5G ecosystem thatwill be needed to maintain our competitive edge. This is particularly important for those of us in more rural parts of America.If inadequacy of spectrum resources makes 5G less viable, it will be the rural areas where it no longer makes sense to deploy next-generation telecommunications services.

Thune's full remarks (as prepared for delivery):
Good morning and welcome to today's hearing reviewing the state of U.S. spectrum policy.
This Committee has long recognized the need for a thoughtful approach to spectrum policy and the important role both the FCC and NTIA have in spectrum management.
I appreciate all of you taking the time out of your schedules to discuss this topic.
Spectrum is the lifeblood of wireless communications.
Next-generation wireless networks require efficient and effective use of low, mid, and high bands of spectrum.
If we do not have proper management of this limited resource, we simply won't have enough of the right kinds of spectrum available.
And in the global race to deploy next-generation networks and services, we have a responsibility to furnish Americans with the spectrum-fueled 5G ecosystem thatwill be needed to maintain our competitive edge.
This is particularly important for those of us in more rural parts of America.
If inadequacy of spectrum resources makes 5G less viable, it will be the rural areas where it no longer makes sense to deploy next-generation telecommunications services.
Here in the United States, NTIA is responsible managing the federal government's spectrum use and the FCC for managing all other uses.
Both NTIA and the FCC have taken important steps to make more spectrum available, but more work must be done.
The FCC, acting in a bipartisan manner, has moved forward with bold proposals to make thousands of megahertz of spectrum available for licensed and unlicensed, fixed and mobile use, and it has proceedings underway to make even more spectrum available.
Importantly, at the end of this year, the FCC is planning an auction to make 280 megahertz of C-band spectrum available for commercial licensed use and it is crucial that auction goes forward without any delays.
This mid-band spectrum is key to the United States winning the race to 5G.
And as more and more Americans are relying on connectivity like Wi-Fi during the coronavirus pandemic, we must also recognize the critical role unlicensed spectrum plays in the communications landscape.
Unlicensed spectrum is responsible for transmitting a significant amount of the data in our networks and will play a tremendous role in the development of the Internet of Things.
But as I mentioned before, if we do not have proper management of spectrum, we will not have sufficient access to the spectrum for commercial purposes.
We all know the demand for spectrum resources will continue to increase with the development of new technologies.
And this demand will result in government agencies, businesses, and other groups competing for these resources, which is why I have always supported an all-of-the-above approach to make sure we efficiently use our limited spectrum resources.
With respect to commercially-licensed spectrum, in my view, it is essential the FCC is allowed to rely on the independent technical and legal expertise of its bureaus and staff and remain the sole expert agency to regulate non-federal uses of spectrum, as directed by its statutory authority through the Communications Act.
The reviews of spectrum usage rights undertaken by the FCC are rarely simple.
I appreciate Chairman Pai's efforts to make more spectrum available for licensed and unlicensed use and the entire Commission's focus and trust in the technical analysis of its engineers to make spectrum decisions in the interests of our national and economic security.
Commercial spectrum usage rights, whether through FCC-issued licenses or FCC-adopted rules, provide the certainty necessary to incentivize and enable returns on massive investments in research and development, manufacturing, infrastructure deployment, and innovations in applications dependent upon commercial spectrum.
And when spectrum is made available, successful spectrum policy must establish predictable rights for private entities to use the airwaves, from satellite to Wi-Fi and terrestrial wireless to broadcast.
Simply put, efficient and effective spectrum management requires clear rules and recognized rights for spectrum users.
It is also essential for NTIA, working with federal agencies through the Interdepartment Radio Advisory Committee, to continue to improve the efficiency of federal spectrum.
Making the Spectrum Relocation Fund a better resource for studying spectrum and relocating federal incumbents where feasible is essential if we are to continue making federal spectrum available for commercial use.
Sound spectrum management policies and procedures will keep spectrum in the pipeline and will help retain American leadership in wireless communications.
I believe we need to make sure the interagency process when making these decisions is transparent, and this is only going to be more important as we work to free up additional spectrum for commercial use.
We have a distinguished panel before us today and I look forward to hearing your thoughts on ways to improve the spectrum policymaking process to generate the most value for consumers.
Joining us today we have Mr. Tom Power from CTIAThe Wireless Association, Dr. Roslyn Layton, a Visiting Researcher at Aalborg University, Mr. Mark Gibson who serves as the Director of Business Development at Comsearch, and Mr. Michael Calabrese from New America's Open Technology Institute who is appearing with us virtually today.
Thank you for being here.
I'll now turn to Ranking Member Schatz for his opening remarks.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=51EF587E-1D21-4C0F-B323-65154B7FB6AF,Thune Statement on USDA Cattle Market Investigation Report,2020-07-22,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a report on its investigation into cattle market volatility during the coronavirus pandemic and following a 2019 fire at a Tyson Foods beef plant in Holcomb, Kansas. The report provides an analysis on cattle market conditions and considerations for improving the cattle market. The investigation into potential violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act is ongoing.
South Dakota's cattle producers are facing extreme volatility in the cattle market, and I remain concerned about potential anticompetitive activity in the highly concentrated meatpacking industry. said Thune. I look forward to reviewing the considerations provided in this report, and I will continue to press the Department of Justice to conclude its investigation into potential price manipulation and other anticompetitive activities in the meatpacking industry.
On April 8, 2020, Thune urged USDA to take further action to strengthen the integrity of the cattle market by requesting that USDA's Packers and Stockyards Division investigate the cattle market volatility due to the COVID-19 pandemic and to conclude its investigation into beef pricing margins after the Holcomb, Kansas, Tyson plant fire. The following day, Thune urged Attorney General William Barr to open an investigation into the beef industry.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8785E8B4-1B59-430F-9C8D-C8DEF6E176AA,"Thune: Next Coronavirus Relief Funding Package Prioritizes Kids, Jobs, and Health Care",2020-07-22,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed the next coronavirus relief funding bill that Republicans plan to introduce in the near future, which will prioritize kids, jobs, and health care. Thune emphasized the importance of targeting this relief effort and prioritizing the most prevalent needs, since every dollar of additional spending will be borrowed and need to be paid back by future generations.
Click here or on the picture above to watch Thune's speech
Excerpt of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, before I begin, I would like to take a moment to honor Congressman John Lewis, who died on Friday.
A leader of the Civil Rights movement, he was one of the 13 original Freedom Riders and an organizer of the 1963 March on Washington.
He was a man of conscience, conviction, and supreme courage.
When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up.You have to do something,' he would say.
John Lewis did something.
Confronted by the great sin of segregation, John Lewis put himself front and center in the fight.
He organized sit-ins.
He led demonstrations.
He marched for freedom.
And he paid for his convictions with his blood.
A man who espoused non-violence, he suffered incredible brutality at the hands of both police officers and civilian mobs.
He was attacked and beaten an untold number of times.
During a march in Selma, Alabama  on a day that lives in infamy  a police officer fractured John Lewis's skull, leaving him with a scar that he carried to the end of his life.
Yet John Lewis was unbowed.
No matter how many times he was attacked or what he suffered, he got up again and rejoined the fight.
His death, Mr. President, is a great loss.
But John Lewis will live on, in the annals of American heroes.
May we all have his courage in fighting for the right.
Mr. President, so far, Congress has provided $2.4 trillion to fight the coronavirus.
Over the past couple of months here in the Senate, we've been closely tracking the implementation of this money and working with the administration on disbursement.
In June alone, we held 30 hearings in the Senate on COVID-related issues.
All of this has helped us identify the priorities that need to shape our next bill  which we're hoping to pass in the next couple of weeks.
And those priorities are kids, jobs, and health care.
First, kids.
Getting kids back in schools safely needs to be a priority.
Being able to attend school in person is important for students' academic development and for their social and emotional wellbeing.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has stated, and I quote, all policy considerations for the coming school year should start with a goal of having students physically present in school.
Now, not every school may be able to fully reopen this fall, but we need to make sure those schools that can reopen have the resources they need to reopen safely.
That's why the legislation Republicans are drafting here in the Senate will provide more than $100 billion to schools to help ensure they have what they need to safely welcome students back to class.
While our first priority in getting kids back to school is ensuring their academic and social wellbeing, getting students back in schools is also important for families' economic health.
There are a lot of parents in this country who can't afford to have one parent stay home to homeschool.
And we need to ensure that those parents have access to schools and childcare wherever possible so that they can keep or return to their jobs.
Enabling Americans to return to work is key to our economic recovery.
Currently, there are more than 17 million unemployed Americans.
While this is a significant improvement from where we were two months ago, that number is still much too high.
And we have to do everything we can to get these Americans back on the job, receiving a regular paycheck.
That's why the legislation we're drafting will provide incentives for businesses to hire and retain workers.
It will provide a refundable tax credit for Main Street businesses for the protective equipment and cleaning supplies they need to keep their employees and customers safe and encourage Americans to return to their businesses.
And it will provide another round of assistance to small businesses, with a focus on those that have been hit hardest by the pandemic.
We also expect to issue another round of direct payments to hardworking Americans to help them get back on their feet and stimulate the economy.
The third bucket of our coronavirus response is, of course, health care.
We have to keep ensuring our health care professionals have the resources needed to treat patients, develop new treatments, and find a vaccine to tame this virus once and for all.
And the coronavirus legislation we're drafting will address all three of those priorities.
Our legislation will also include another important priority that will protect jobs, schools, businesses, and health care workers, and that is liability protections.
No matter how many precautions schools and businesses take, there is no way for them to completely eliminate all risk of employees, students, or customers contracting the virus.
But an army of trial lawyers is waiting to levy lawsuits against even the most careful schools and businesses.
Mr. President, there is absolutely no question that schools and businesses should be liable for gross negligence or intentional misconduct.
But businesses and schools that are taking every reasonable precaution to protect employees and students should not have to worry about facing lawsuits for virus transmission that they could not have prevented.
And health care workers giving their all on the front lines to treat coronavirus patients should not have to worry that their efforts will be rewarded with lawsuits.
Mr. President, I would like to think that we can put a bipartisan bill together and get it to the president's desk in the next couple of weeks.
Republicans are ready and willing to work with Democrats to get this done.
We will introduce our draft shortly, and be ready to negotiate with Democrats to arrive at a final bill  the same process we followed with the CARES Act, our largest coronavirus relief bill to date.
But this will only work if Democrats are willing to come to the table and negotiate on a reasonable bill.
My Democrat colleagues sometimes behave as if government money is drawn from a magical pot of gold that will never run out.
But it's not.
Every dollar of the coronavirus funding we've provided so far has been borrowed money, and every dollar we appropriate in the Phase IV bill we're drafting will likely be borrowed money as well.
Now, it's money we need to borrow.
But we need to remember that it's borrowed money and that the bill for that money will eventually come due.
The more we drive up our debt, the greater the threat to the health of our economy  not to mention to the economic future of today's younger workers.
We have an obligation to them to limit our borrowing to what is absolutely necessary to fight this virus.
The Democrat leader has come down to the floor the past couple of days and suggested that the HEROES Act  a $3 trillion coronavirus bill the House passed  is, and I quote, a good product to start with, unquote, when it comes to a Phase IV coronavirus relief bill.
Mr. President, that is ludicrous.
The bill the Democrat leader is promoting  the bill he thinks is a good starting point for coronavirus legislation  is a bill that mentions the word cannabis more often than it mentions the word job.
Let me just repeat that, Mr. President.
The bill the Democrat leader thinks is a good starting point for coronavirus relief legislation mentions the word cannabis more often than it mentions the word job.
While the Democrat leader is certainly welcome to disagree with me, I don't think diversity studies in the cannabis industry have a major role to play in defeating this virus or getting Americans back to work.
Nor does federalizing election law  another priority Democrats included in their bill.
Mr. President, despite its $3 trillion price tag, the bill the Democrat leader is endorsing fails to meet one of the most basic requirements of any coronavirus relief bill  providing a meaningful plan for getting Americans back to work.
And it's disappointing to hear the Democrat leader promoting such an unserious piece of legislation at a time when we should be devoting all our efforts to getting a bipartisan bill to the president.
I hope my other Democrat colleagues here in the Senate are ready to look beyond partisan wish lists and focus on negotiating a relief package that addresses the real priorities we're facing  helping kids and parents, getting Americans back to work, and providing the health care resources needed to fight this virus.
Republicans are ready to come to the table.
I urge Democrats to join us.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9D967421-07E8-4813-A695-2B6D1A9D32CF,"Thune, Enzi Introduce Legislation to Improve Integrity of the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program",2020-07-22,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), and Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), members of the Senate Finance Committee, today introduced legislation that would improve the integrity of the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. The bill would also reduce the issuance of fraudulent claims by requiring beneficiaries of the program to provide documentation proving employment or planned employment to their state unemployment insurance (UI) office in order to receive PUA benefits.
While it's very important that we make sure those who are struggling with unemployment because of the COVID-19 pandemic have the assistance they need during these tough times, it's just as important that PUA benefits are going to folks who are actually eligible, said Thune. By adding this layer of transparency to this program we created in the CARES Act, we can ensure it is actually serving the people Congress intended.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented unemployment and while it's important to help those struggling, we need to make sure that unemployment money is going to those who are eligible, said Enzi. This bill would close a loophole to help prevent fraud in the program and ensure taxpayer dollars are being spent as intended.
The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Integrity Act would require current and future PUA beneficiaries to provide documentation proving employment or planned employment to obtain or retain PUA benefits. The CARES Act established PUA to provide UI benefits to individuals not otherwise eligible, like the self-employed and independent contractors.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A0CEA6AA-DD88-4918-85B9-9D9DF69C282F,"Thune to Lead Subcommittee Hearing on Legislation to Strengthen Online Transparency, Accountability, and Consumer Protection",2020-07-22,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen.John Thune, (R-S.D.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled,The PACT Act and Section 230: The Impact of the Law that Helped Create the InternetandanExamination of Proposed Reforms for Today's Online World, at 10:00 a.m. EDT/ 9:00 a.m. CDT on Tuesday, July 28, 2020.The hearing will examine the important role of Section 230 in promoting and disseminating speech online, and the history, evolution, and expansion of Section 230's protections for online platforms. The hearing will provide an opportunity to discuss ways to ensure platforms are accountable for their content moderation practices and what legislative measures, from transparency to accountability tools, can empower consumers online.
On June 24, 2020, Thune joined Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), ranking member of the subcommittee, in introducing thePlatform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act, bipartisan legislation to update Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. The PACT Act would strengthen transparency in the process online platforms use to moderate content and hold those companies accountable for content that violates their own policies or is illegal.
Witnesses:
 
The Honorable Christopher Cox, counsel, Morgan, Lewis & Bokius LLP; director, NetChoice
Ms. Elizabeth Banker, deputy general counsel, Internet Association
Mr. Jeff Kosseff, assistant professor, Cyber Science Department, United States Naval Academy
Mr. Olivier Sylvain, professor of law, Fordham University
 
Hearing Details:
Thursday, July 28, 2020
10:00 a.m. EDT/ 9:00 a.m. CDT
Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet

Witness testimony,opening statements, and a live video of the hearingwill be available onwww.commerce.senate.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-statement-usda-cattle-investigation,Johnson Statement on USDA Cattle Investigation,2020-07-22,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) issued a statement following the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) release of the ""Box Beef & Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation Report."" This investigation was announced by USDA Secretary Perdue on August 29, 2019, following the Holcomb, Kansas fire and was expanded to cover COVID-19 after the cattle market faced price disruption.

""I'm disappointed the investigation's report did not conclude or outline any potential violations of the Packers and Stockyards Act. This report is incomplete, and I will continue to push USDA to finish the job,"" said Johnson.

""I am pleased that the report identified a number of policy approaches to address market weaknesses. Many of USDA's suggestions directly relate to cattle market legislation I've already been fighting for. In its report, USDA highlighted the importance of small processor capacity and risk management tools for producers, my bills would solve both areas of market weakness. We have more work to do. I'm hopeful USDA's support will only drive the momentum of getting these proposals across the finish line.""

Rep. Johnson is supportive of several policy proposals included in USDA's investigation report and has introduced several bills on related areas of weakness:

USDA calls for adding capacity at the small processor level:

This year Rep. Johnson introduced H.R.6977, Small Packer Overtime and Holiday Fee Relief for COVID-19 Act of 2020 and H.R.7425, the DIRECT Act of 2020 to accomplish these exact goals without compromising food safety or export markets, as outlined in the report.

USDA Rural Development lending program should be tailored to help processors:

Rep. Johnson is currently working on legislation to improve these tools to make them more available to small processors wishing to expand or producer cooperatives to enter this space.

USDA supports better risk management tools for livestock producers:

In the aftermath of the Holcomb fire, Rep. Johnson introduced H.R.4773, Livestock Risk Management and Education Act to work with land grant universities and industry organizations to develop tools to assist small producers who wish to utilize these risk management tools.

USDA called for greater transparency and price discovery:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:18:24Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/opening-statement-ranking-member-dusty-johnson,Opening Statement: Ranking Member Dusty Johnson,2020-07-21,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Remarks as prepared for delivery:

Thank you, Madam Chair.

When Secretary Perdue announced the creation of the Farmers to Families Food Box program, I was excited.

This was a way to expeditiously assist producers—many of whom were plowing over crops or dumping milk because of supply chain disruptions—as well as consumers who found themselves in circumstances beyond their control, and in great need.

USDA's promise to purchase fresh produce, dairy, and certain meat products was welcome news. And to date, their purchases have far exceeded their own goals.

Since May 15, Feeding South Dakota has accepted 95,241 boxes—over 1.57 million pounds of food. These boxes have included a combination of produce, fluid milk, protein, and mixed dairy. About 95 communities throughout South Dakota have benefited from Farmers to Families.

Of course, no program is without growing pains. I wrote to the Secretary on May 22 to further understand some of the things I was reading and hearing about; the Secretary responded, explaining everything from the contracting flexibilities under the Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 18, to PACA licenses, to further awards.

And here we are, 90 days after the initial announcement of this program, attempting to find fault in small details instead of celebrating a bold effort to feed those impacted by this virus. This should be celebrated, no matter which administration was in charge.

Farmers to Families works. It is wildly successful, and it is doing exactly what was intended—connecting farmers to families in need.

But instead of applauding the efforts of the Department and Administration, we sit here to discuss the cherry-picked challenges certain areas of the country have faced.

Meanwhile, the other part of CFAP receives almost no attention from this Committee.

On April 1, I helped lead a bipartisan, bicameral group of over 140 members urging targeted, temporary and equitable relief for cattle producers.

From what I can see, there has been no greater push for assistance than that for cattle country, but the CFAP program still came up short as producers who sold livestock after April 15 only received a fraction of those who sold earlier.

As the pandemic carried on and the situation deteriorated for our pork producers, we followed up with other strong, bipartisan letters urging support for producers feeling the economic impact of shirking shackle space.

We appreciate the hard work of the Department, but we as a Congress failed to deliver the resources necessary to properly aid our farmers and ranchers. We had to fight hard for that $23.5 billion, a fight for the very folks necessary to ensuring our food supply chain remains uninterrupted and our store shelves stocked.

And I would like to remind Members and those viewing at home that, in the early days of the pandemic, Republicans asked for $50 billion in dedicated agriculture funding.

My hope is that we can come together and fight for enough funding for agriculture in this next package.

We need to provide resources to both extend coverage for our cattlemen who sold at the bottom of the market after April 15, and our pork producers who creatively found markets for hogs but suffered huge losses to avoid euthanizing their livestock.

We should have a hearing on that.

With that, I yield back.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:18:24Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/spanberger-johnson-lead-bipartisan-effort-calling-fcc-strengthen-support,"Spanberger, Johnson Lead Bipartisan Effort Calling on FCC to Strengthen Support for Telehealth Providers During Pandemic & Beyond",2020-07-21,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) and Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL) today led a 41-Member, bipartisan effort calling on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide greater certainty and support to healthcare providers standing up telehealth services, which are playing an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a letter sent to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, the bipartisan group of lawmakers described how high costs and insufficient broadband internet connectivity prevent many rural patients and providers from fully accessing the benefits of telehealth. The lawmakers called for more information to be made available to Congress regarding the COVID-19 telehealth program authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, as they expressed concerns that many eligible providers did not receiving an award from the initial funding package.

""We write to request more information about the funding made available to providers through the COVID-19 telehealth program authorized by the CARES Act. More and more patients are seeking care from providers over telecommunications technology rather than in a brick and mortar office or clinic,"" states the letter. ""We believe this shift has the potential to improve access to care for marginalized populations, reduce costs, and improve health outcomes by facilitating better monitoring of chronic health conditions.

""In Central Virginia, we've seen firsthand how seniors, veterans, and families have been able to access both routine appointments and lifesaving care through telemedicine. Especially during this public health crisis, we need to keep our most vulnerable neighbors safe, and thankfully, many of our region's healthcare providers use telehealth to deliver quality care without putting Virginians at greater risk,"" said Spanberger. ""Unfortunately, unreliable internet access and rising costs often prevent patients from accessing these telehealth services. That's why I led 40 of my colleagues — Republicans and Democrats — in emphasizing the critical importance of telehealth. I've been encouraged by the strong support these innovative, cutting edge healthcare programs have received in Congress so far, and I hope Congress and the FCC will take bold steps that can widen the adoption of these programs and expand high-quality, affordable healthcare access across our rural communities.""

""Because of the CARES Act, hospitals around the country were able to apply for funding through the Federal Communications Commission to increase state access to telehealth services. This program permitted South Dakota hospitals to purchase telehealth equipment, ensuring our hospitals could meet the needs of patients virtually,"" said Johnson. ""If this program is working across the country like it is in South Dakota, we should reopen the application process to meet demand. I'm looking forward to hearing from the FCC on the viability of such an important effort to expand health care access to Americans.""

Click here to read the letter, and the full letter text is also below.

---

Dear Commissioner Pai,

We write to request more information about the funding made available to providers through the COVID-19 telehealth program authorized by the CARES Act.

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in the delivery of health care services across the country. More and more patients are seeking care from providers over telecommunications technology rather than in a brick and mortar office or clinic. We believe this shift has the potential to improve access to care for marginalized populations, reduce costs, and improve health outcomes by facilitating better monitoring of chronic health conditions.

Telehealth is especially relevant during the public health emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Using telehealth platforms, patients can see providers with minimal risk of spreading or contracting coronavirus. We are pleased that Congress has acted through successive bills to expand flexibilities for federal health care programs to pay for telehealth services during this emergency.

We recognize that the costs of standing up telehealth programs and the insufficient access to broadband internet in many parts of the country are hindering providers and patients from realizing the full potential of these expanded flexibilities, especially during this pandemic. Partially to address these concerns, Congress included a $200 million appropriation in the CARES Act for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to support health care providers' provision of telehealth services needed to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus.

FCC moved quickly to begin distributing the CARES Act funds. On April 2, 2020, FCC announced the program and set the maximum award at $1 million. The program has proven to be very popular, and on June 25th, FCC announced it would no longer accept applications from providers for funding from the program. Finally, on July 8th, FCC announced the release of the final tranche of approved funding applications from the original $200 million appropriation.

Providers in our districts are very interested in participating in the program. However, we are concerned that many eligible providers and worthy telehealth projects did not receive funding from the initial appropriation.

As such, we respectfully ask for additional data around the following questions:

How much more in funding would the agency require to fulfill all pending applications?

What was the average funding amount requested by applicants?

What technical assistance has the FCC provided to smaller providers that lack experience in applying for eligibility determinations from the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) or in dealing with the agency generally?

Please provide information about the number of awards and the amount of funding that went to:

Providers in rural and urban areas;

Each category of provider type as described by Section 254(h)(7)(B) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996;

Providers who primarily serve high-risk and vulnerable patients; and

Any additional information that will facilitate Congressional understanding of the program's impact.

What is the average number of patients served by each award?

What is the average time FCC takes to process reimbursements for invoiced services and devices by providers?

Thank you very much for your attention to these matters.

---",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:18:24Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/usda-cattle-market-investigation-findings-coming-soon,USDA: Cattle Market Investigation Findings Coming Soon,2020-07-21,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, during the House Agriculture Committee's Nutrition, Oversight and Department Operations Subcommittee hearing, Subcommittee Ranking Member Dusty Johnson (SD-AL) questioned U.S. Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Ibach on the ongoing investigation into the cattle markets following the Holcomb, Kansas fire in 2019.

During Johnson's questioning on the status of the investigation, Undersecretary Ibach told Johnson USDA was ""nearing conclusion"" and looks forward to ""releasing a report from USDA in the very near future."" Ibach also stated ""there may be action that the committee may want to consider as a result of the report.""

""Our producers have waited over a year for answers from USDA's investigation into the volatile cattle markets,"" saidJohnson. ""It's something I'm eager to see and will continue to push for.""

In 2019, Johnson urged USDA to provide a thorough investigation to producers following cattle market volatility after the August 2019 Holcomb, Kansas Tyson beef processing plant. After continued instability caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, Johnson urged President Trump to conduct a multi-agency investigation into the cattle markets.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:18:24Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=BD8175D2-9332-4CA2-869C-0A62BE586083,No Surprise Tax Bills for COVID Relief Workers,2020-07-17,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"As New York struggled with tens of thousands of coronavirus cases, medical professionals from across the United States headed to New York City to help.Their work was crucial to New York's efforts to contain the pandemic and undoubtedly helped save lives.And in May, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced their reward: tax bills from the state of New York.
That's right.Tax bills.Doctors and nurses who voluntarily crossed state lines to come help  in some cases, sacrificing vacation time to do so  are now being informed that they will owe New York's substantial income tax on any money they made while they were there.And while individuals can generally receive a tax credit from their home state for tax paid to another state, thus avoiding double taxation of that income, many will be paying a much higher tax rate than normal on money they earned during their time in New York. This situation is even more perverse for residents of states like South Dakota that don't have an income tax against which a credit can be claimed. These individuals will simply have to absorb the entirety of the unexpected expense.
These medical professionals are not alone. They are confronting a challenge that many Americans who regularly travel for work face  a challenge that has been highlighted by the coronavirus pandemic.And that is navigating the complexities of paying income tax when you spend time working in different states throughout the year.
Generally your income is taxed by the state in which your income is earned, your home state.But some states  like New York  aggressively tax individuals whom they deem to have earned income in their state, even if the income earned is simply what the individual makes for attending a one-day conference in the state.Other states allow individuals to work for a longer period  as long as 60 days in some instances  before they require a nonresident to file an income tax return in their state.If you work as a traveling nurse, a salesman, or a corporate trainer  all jobs that might regularly take you to multiple states in a year  tax time can be absolutely bewildering as you try to navigate the different rules of the different states in which you've worked over the past year.
The tax situation facing mobile workers has long called out for a solution.And for the past four Congresses, I've championed legislation  the Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act  that would help bring certainty to workers, states, and employers by establishing a 30-day threshold that would apply to nonresident employees working in all 50 states.Spend 30 days or fewer in another state during the year, and your income would still be taxed in the state where your work home base is located.Spend more than 30 days in any given state, and you would be subject to income tax in your home state as well as in the state in which you're temporarily working. Establishing this uniform standard would make it a lot easier for employees to figure out when they might incur additional state income taxes as a result of work-related travel.
The pandemic has highlighted the need for this legislation  as well as the need for additional pandemic-specific measures to fully protect health care workers and remote workers from negative tax effects.I recently introduced a revised version of my bill in the Senate  the Remote and Mobile Worker Relief Act. This legislation contains all the provisions of my Mobile Workforce legislation, but it also adds a special 90-day provision governing health care workers who voluntarily traveled to other states to work during the pandemic.This should ensure that no health care workers face higher tax bills as a result of their willingness to help out in pandemic-stricken areas.
My revised bill also addresses the potential problems facing remote workers as a result of the pandemic.Many workers who generally work in another state from their place of residence  for example, New Jersey residents who work in New York City  worked from home during the pandemic because of stay-at-home orders and similar measures.Now, normally these workers would be taxed on the resulting income by the state in which they normally work.But their unexpected remote work has opened up the possibility of having that income taxed by their state of residence as well  which would create an unexpectedly complicated tax filing situation and possibly a higher tax bill for these workers.
My legislation would simply continue the status quo that existed at the start of the pandemic.So, for example, if you are generally taxed in the state of North Carolina because your job is there, but you live in South Carolina, your tax situation would not change simply because you worked from home during the pandemic.
My Mobile Workforce bill has received strong bipartisan support in previous Congresses, and the U.S. House of Representatives has even passed a version of my legislation several times.The only reason my bill has not advanced in the Senate is because of opposition from a handful of states who aggressively tax those temporarily working inside their borders.I hope that with the additional urgency created by the pandemic, we will be able to pass the Remote and Mobile Worker Relief Act this year, either alone or as part of a larger coronavirus relief package.
Americans have faced a very difficult few months as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.Congress should intervene to ensure that new tax burdens are not among the pandemic's effects.I intend to do everything I can in Congress to ensure that Americans who worked from home to help flatten the curve don't face a complicated tax situation as a result  and that health care workers who risked their lives to work in COVID-stricken areas are not rewarded with massive tax bills from the states whose residents they helped save.
** Note to editors: A similar version of this op-ed first appeared in the Wall Street Journal.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=8040E945-ECEC-4088-9F3D-BDE6F78227D9,Thune to Lead Subcomittee Hearing on Spectrum Policy,2020-07-16,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Sen.John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled,The State of U.S. Spectrum Policy, at 10:00 a.m. EDT / 9:00 a.m. CDT on Thursday, July 23, 2020.The hearing will examine the Federal Communications Commission's and National Telecommunications and Information Administration's role in spectrum management and policymaking. Witnesses will have the opportunity to discuss how the increased demand and competition for licensed and unlicensed spectrum resources have impacted spectrum policies in the United States.
Witnesses:
 
Mr. Tom Power,senior vice president and general counsel, CTIAThe Wireless Association
Mr. Mark Gibson,director of business development, CommScope
Dr. Roslyn Layton,visiting researcher, Aalborg University
Mr. Michael Calabrese,director, Wireless Future Project, Open Technology Institute at New America
 
*Witness list subject to change
Hearing Details:
Thursday, July 23, 2020
10:00 a.m. EDT / 9:00 a.m. CDT
Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet

Witness testimony,opening statements, and a live video of the hearingwill be available onwww.commerce.senate.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9474EC61-1D64-4330-8635-2B1E77997C26,Thune and Markey Applaud FCC TRACED Act Mandate,2020-07-16,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), authors ofthe Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act, today issued the following statement on the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC's) report and order to establish safe harbors from liability for voice service providers that block unwanted robocalls. It also provides protections for legitimate callers and seeks further information and feedback from consumers and industry stakeholders on call blocking and TRACED Act implementation.
Access to accurate information in the middle of this health crisis is critical and can help save lives, which unfortunately means it's no surprise that bad actors are using this pandemic to take advantage of people through illegal robocalls, said Thune and Markey. Today's action by the FCC to implement key provisions from our TRACED Act will help protect consumers from robocallers who are acting in bad faith. On top of everything else Americans are dealing with during this pandemic, now is not the time to worry about the scams illegal robocallers are trying to peddle. We look forward to working with the FCC and our colleagues in Congress as our bipartisan effort to ban these nuisance robocalls continues to take effect.
Thune and Markeyintroducedthe TRACED Act on January 17, 2019, and it became law on December 30, 2019. The bill was supported byattorneys generalin all 50 states, by allcurrent commissionersat the Federal Trade Commission and Federal Communications Commission, and byindustry and consumer groups,including AARP.
The TRACED Act gives regulators more time to find scammers and levy fines for those who are caught, promotes call authentication and blocking adoption,and brings relevant federal agencies and state attorneys general together to address impediments to criminal prosecution of robocallers who intentionally flout laws.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/thune-stabenow-johnson-and-loebsack-lead-bipartisan-bicameral-letter-urging,"Thune, Stabenow, Johnson, and Loebsack Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Letter Urging USDA to Provide Flexibility for Harvesting and Grazing Cover Crops on Prevented Plant Acres",2020-07-12,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and U.S. Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) and Dave Loebsack (D-Iowa) today led a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) urging it to exercise its authority to allow producers to graze or harvest cover crops on prevented plant acres prior to November 1.

""While we do not expect nearly as many prevented plant acres as last year, we request that you again provide relief for producers by eliminating the penalties for grazing, haying, or chopping cover crops approved by USDA as long as the activities are outside of the primary nesting season.,"" the members of Congress wrote. ""This would help ensure that producers have adequate sources of feed for the backlog of livestock due to the meat processing capacity shortfalls because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It would also encourage the adoption of cover crops, which improve soil health, suppress weeds, and reduce erosion. At a minimum, we encourage USDA to move up the date for grazing, haying, or chopping cover crops on these acres from November 1 to September 1 due to unprecedented environmental and economic circumstances.""

Cosigning the letter were Sens. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Reps. Ralph Abraham (R-La.), Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.), Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Jim Baird (R-Ind.), Mike Bost (R. Ill.), Cheri Bustos (D-Ill.), Angie Craig (D-Minn.), Rodney Davis (R-Ill.), Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Adrian Smith (R-Neb.), and Collin Peterson (D-Minn.).

Full text of the letter below:

The Honorable Sonny Perdue

Secretary

U.S. Department of Agriculture

1400 Independence Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20250

Dear Secretary Perdue:

We write to request that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) again exercise its authority to allow producers to graze or harvest cover crops on prevented plant acres prior to November 1.

As you know, there were more than 19 million prevented plant acres across the United States in 2019 due to excessive rainfall and spring flooding. Due to an administrative rule, producers were not allowed to graze or harvest cover crops on these acres prior to November 1 without a reduction in their prevented plant indemnity. This rule served as a barrier to cover crop adoption, especially in northern states that have shorter growing seasons and often face adverse weather conditions by November 1.

To address this, on June 20, 2019, USDA made a one-time administrative change to move up the date on which producers could graze, hay, or chop cover crops on prevented plant acres from November 1 to September 1. We appreciated this flexibility, which allowed producers to retain some agricultural value of their prevented plant acres.

While we do not expect nearly as many prevented plant acres as last year, we request that you again provide relief for producers by eliminating the penalties for grazing, haying, or chopping cover crops approved by USDA as long as the activities are outside of the primary nesting season. This would help ensure that producers have adequate sources of feed for the backlog of livestock due to the meat processing capacity shortfalls because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It would also encourage the adoption of cover crops, which improve soil health, suppress weeds, and reduce erosion. At a minimum, we encourage USDA to move up the date for grazing, haying, or chopping cover crops on these acres from November 1 to September 1 due to unprecedented environmental and economic circumstances.

We appreciate your efforts to assist producers affected by COVID-19. Thank you for your prompt consideration of this request.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:18:24Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=F7208271-DF3E-469B-A6F2-14A227BEE95D,Senator Thune's Weekly Column: Rules for the Digital Road,2020-07-10,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"I currently serve as chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, and I'm the senior Republican on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Both panels play an integral role in developing federal technology policy and providing oversight of some of the nation's largest technology companies, including Twitter, Facebook, and Google, just to name a few.
My goal as a federal policymaker has always been to apply a light-touch approach to internet regulation that creates a positive environment for consumers and entrepreneurs, while ensuring users are protected and online platforms follow all of the appropriate rules and regulations. It's that type of balanced approach that has allowed the internet to flourish as much as it has in its relatively short history.
An overly regulated internet hinders innovation and growth, but an under-regulated internet would create its own set of problems. For example, think of the internet as a new interstate highway system that's been built from the East Coast of the United States to the West Coast. In a completely regulation-free environment, a driver could access the highway without a driver's license and travel as fast as he or she wanted through big cities, small towns, and the open road.
If you multiplied that unregulated driver by hundreds of thousands of people, that would obviously be unsafe for the people on the highway and in the towns through which it travels. That's why governments and regulators apply speed limits, stops signs, traffic lights, and licensing requirements to ensure drivers, and those people around them, have the freedom to travel as safely and efficiently as possible.
As traffic patterns, volume, and other needs on our nation's roadways evolve, so too does the internet. That's why it's so important for Congress to stay ahead of the curve and always work toward striking the right balance on internet regulation. If we don't, we risk creating a system where the rules that apply in the offline world for certain conduct do not apply in the online world, a situation that will tilt against consumers.
I recently joined Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), my Democrat counterpart on the subcommittee I chair, in introducing the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency Act  or PACT Act  which would update a decades-old federal law that provides the rules of the road for certain technology companies that host user-generated content. For example, most social media platforms would fall into this category.
Under current law, if a user posts illegal content, the platform that hosts it isn't held liable for it, in most circumstances. The law also protects companies that choose to moderate content on their platforms (in other words, decide whether user-generated content stays or is removed). The law was effective while many of these online companies were in their infancy, but there's a growing bipartisan concern that social media platforms are often not transparent and accountable enough to consumers with respect to the platform's moderation of user-generated content. That's why our PACT Act is so relevant.
At its core, the PACT Act is about transparency, accountability, consistency, and consumer protection. It would require companies that moderate content to provide a clear and easily accessible user policy that explains how, when, and why user-generated content might be removed. It would also require these online platforms to create a defined complaint system that processes reports and notifies users of moderation decisions within 14 days. Our legislation would require large technology companies to have a toll-free customer service phone line with live customer support to take customer complaints.This requirement is geared toward consumers who are less familiar with technology and who want to talk to a real person about a complaint about their service.And, among other things, the PACT Act would allow users to file an appeal if a platform removes a post and the user disagrees with the decision.
Again, regulating the internet is all about striking the right balance, and I believe our bill is a step in the right direction. Anyone on either end of the political spectrum who is worried about potential bias or too much top-down control on online platforms should be able to support the basic principles of the PACT Act and its modernization of the rules for the digital road throughout the United States.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=0B8FC7E5-A755-456C-A4D5-7A1689E974BC,"The Importance of Mount Rushmore, the Shrine of Democracy",2020-07-02,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"There are a number of presidents who have come to Mount Rushmore through the years, starting in 1927 with Calvin Coolidge when he authorized the first funding for the carving of the memorial. I've been there with two former presidents, and I imagine that every president who has served since the monument's completion has looked up there and eyeballed whether or not there might be room for one more face.
Having grown up in western South Dakota, I know firsthand what the monument means to our economy. Everyone in my family, and everyone in most families in my hometown, worked in businesses that served travelers who were heading to or coming from Mount Rushmore.
I had two brothers who worked in filling stations. My sister waited tables. My younger brother worked at my hometown's local attraction, the Pioneer Auto Museum. I cooked at a restaurant, the Star Family Restaurant. My parents, who worked in the school system during the school year, managed a motel during the travel season, where all of us kids pitched in whenever we could.
We didn't have time or money for a vacation, except for one thing  our annual Labor Day weekend visit to the Black Hills, which always included a trip to Mount Rushmore. I have to say, it never got old, and I'm still in awe when I see it today. 
Mount Rushmore is one of the most unique sculptures on the entire planet, and it never disappoints. From the father of our country  George Washington  to the author of the Declaration of Independence  Thomas Jefferson  to the man who preserved the Union through the tumult of the Civil War  Abe Lincoln  to the Rough Rider, the man in the arena, who helped tame the west  Teddy Roosevelt  Mount Rushmore captures the greatness and the uniqueness of this American experiment. This monument continues to remind us of our past and inspire our future.
Tens of millions of Americans have passed by this shrine of democracy over the past 80-plus years, and may tens of millions more come this way for decades and centuries to come as we continue to celebrate freedom's eternal spirit.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=45AE0D5B-8732-430B-A31E-8A3B354B46B2,Thune Leads Colleagues in Introducing Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Certainty for the 340B Program,2020-07-02,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.), and Ben Cardin (D-Md.) introduced legislation that would provide certainty to hospitals participating in the 340B drug discount program during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
The 340B program has been critical to South Dakota hospitals that are relying on the certainty it provides  especially during this ongoing health crisis, said Thune. This commonsense and targeted measure would ensure that no hospital that is currently eligible for the 340B program can lose eligibility due to a reduction in hospitalizations during the pandemic. I urge my colleagues to support this important and timely legislation.
Michigan's hospitals and health care providers are on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we need to do everything we can to make sure they have the resources they need to save lives,said Stabenow.The 340B program helps safety-net providers care for patients by reducing pharmaceutical costs. Our bipartisan bill ensures that the COVID-19 crisis doesn't impact health care providers' ability to participate in the program.
The 340B drug pricing program has been an important tool for Ohio's hospitals throughout the years, providing them with the flexible resources needed to meet the ongoing needs of their communities without a penny from the federal government, said Portman. As the ongoing pandemic disrupts our health care system, we must ensure that programs like the 340B program can be there to support our hospitals and our communities.I'm proud to support this bill so that we can ensure that our hospitals can continue to use the program throughout and after the pandemic.
Our hospitals, health care workers, and the patients they serve need certainty during this ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and we must work together to limit disruptions to our health care system, said Baldwin. The 340B program has served Wisconsin well by helping to lower drug prices for hospitals and health clinics serving vulnerable communities that would otherwise not be able to afford prescription drugs. This bipartisan legislation has the support of leading Wisconsin hospitals and it has my support as well because it ensures that hospitals currently eligible for the 340B program have the certainty of being able to maintain eligibility throughout this pandemic. Let's get this done so hospitals can continue providing lower cost health care services to those in need.
Our health care safety net providers are needed now more than ever during the coronavirus pandemic, and the 340B program is an essential tool for them to stretch limited resources, said Capito. I'm proud to introduce this bill to help to ensure that bureaucratic hurdles do not put care in jeopardy and look forward to moving this across the finish line.
The COVID-19 pandemic has ravaged our communities, especially low-income communities and communities of color, said Cardin. Extending eligibility to the 340B program is essential for these safety net providers to continue to serve these vulnerable populations, especially during this public health crisis.
The COVID-19 public health emergency resulted in many hospitals experiencing a reduction in inpatient hospital admissions of low-income Medicare and Medicaid patients, a critical metric in determining eligibility for the 340B program. Though hospitals have started resuming elective procedures, and patients have begun returning to seek care, there is concern that as a result of this year's slowdown, some hospitals may not meet the required inpatient admission threshold to remain in the program for the following year. This legislation would ensure that any previously eligible hospital will be deemed eligible for any cost reporting period during which the public health emergency occurred.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=9F0049BB-F6EB-4BB6-A8E1-5CA4E0C17268,"Thune, Moran, and Young Introduce Bill to Update E-SIGN",2020-07-02,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.), members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, which has jurisdiction over technology and consumer protection, today introduced the E-SIGN Modernization Act, legislation that would streamline how consumers consent to receiving electronic documents like bank statements, account information, and contracts.The Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-SIGN) became law in 2000 and provides a framework for how transactions involved in interstate or foreign commerce can be completed using electronic signatures and electronic documents.
As technology continues to advance and transform, so too should the laws that govern it, said Thune. Computers, smart phones, and other devices are more reliable and accessible than ever before. This legislation makes necessary updates to E-SIGN to reflect these advancements in technology and make it easier for consumers to receive documents electronically.
Given the major advancements in technology and consumer accessibility that have occurred in the past two decades since the E-SIGN Act was first enacted, it's time to modernize this law, Moran. This legislation is a timely update to expand consumer access to online and mobile financial services in line with modern practices.
During this challenging time, Americans are increasingly faced with outdated barriers to accessing critical documents and bank statements electronically, said Young. TheE-SIGN Modernization Actwill streamline this decades-old system and allow more people to access their bank information from a computer or other electronic device.
As we mark the E-SIGN Act's 20thanniversary this week, we applaud Senator Thune's leadership in modernizing the law while preserving its important consumer protections, said Rob Nichols, president and CEO of American Bankers Association. This legislation will help ensure customers' requests to access digital banking services are quickly honored, particularly when brick-and-mortar operations are disrupted or customers are temporarily displaced. This update to one of the landmark laws of the internet age will also mean more widely-available and innovative choices for bank customers, including the ability to more easily manage how much paper they receive.
The E-Sign Modernization Act of 2020 is a strong step toward balancing community health with financial well-being, said Jim Nussle, president and CEO of Credit Union National Association. Enhancing consumer access to online services will ensure that consumers and the financial first responders meeting their pecuniary needs remain safe in our current operating environment.
E-SIGN currently requires consumers to reasonably demonstrate that they can access documents electronically before they can receive an electronic version, which is an outdated requirement that is no longer necessary given advancements in technology.The E-SIGN Modernization Act would remove this requirement, so once a consumer is provided with disclosure information and consents to receiving documents electronically, he or she can obtain them through those means.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-amendment-refine-weapon-systems-investments-included-house-ndaa,Johnson Amendment to Refine Weapon Systems Investments Included in House NDAA,2020-07-02,2020,2020-07,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Filemon Vela (D-TX) and Joe Wilson (R-SC) introduced a bipartisan amendment to the House of Representatives' National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation focuses on improving the Department of Defense's (DoD) approach to overseeing weapon systems investments.

""I'm thrilled that my amendment was added to the House of Representatives' annual defense bill,"" said Johnson. ""This amendment will enable the Department of Defense to refine its weapon systems investments and save the taxpayers money while still accomplishing the mission. I am thankful to Congressman Vela and Congressman Wilson for partnering with me on this important measure.""

""I was proud to champion a bipartisan amendment that asks Department of Defense leadership to coordinate on the tools and workforce necessary to conduct enterprise-level portfolio management, ultimately streamlining our acquisition process and saving taxpayer dollars,"" said Vela.

""I am grateful to co-lead this important piece of legislation which requires the Department of Defense to use portfolio management best practices to improve weapon system investments. This approach would reduce government waste and inefficiency by significantly reducing duplicative efforts within DoD, saving our taxpayer dollars, and funding other crucial objectives to supporting our national security,"" Congressman Wilson said. ""I am also thankful that this legislation was included in the Fiscal Year 2021 NDAA that passed by unanimous consent out of the Armed Services Committee last night. I commend Representatives Dusty Johnson and Filemon Vela for their leadership on this issue and look forward to President Donald Trump signing this critical provision into law.""

If enacted, this provision will require DoD to develop a formal implementation plan to establish the necessary technology, systems, and data to perform enterprise-level portfolio management. As a result, the Department will be on a path toward maximizing taxpayer dollars to develop and field capabilities required by our men and women in uniform.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:18:24Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-cuellar-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-support-meat-and-poultry,"Johnson, Cuellar Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Meat and Poultry Producers",2020-06-30,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX) introduced the Direct Interstate Retail Exemption for Certain Transactions (DIRECT) Act. This legislation will allow state inspected meat to be sold across state lines through e-commerce, allowing small producers and processors more options to directly market to consumers.

""As a result of COVID-19, meat processing plants across the country have been forced to close or slow operations and as a result we've seen a renaissance in small processors,"" said Johnson. ""Many states, including South Dakota, have inspection standards that are at least equal to what the federal government requires. This bill cuts through red tape and allows producers, processors and retailers to sell state inspected meat and poultry direct to consumers through online stores across state lines.""

""America's meat industry has been hit hard by financial challenges resulting from the coronavirus pandemic,"" said Cuellar. ""The bipartisan legislation will open up new markets for meat producers and processors by allowing meat inspected by the State to be sold online and across state lines. As a senior member of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Appropriations, I will continue to fight for the men and women who work every day to keep food on our table during these unprecedented times. I want to thank Congressman Dusty Johnson for his commitment to supporting our meat industry.""

The DIRECT Act will:

Amend the retail exemption under the Federal Meat Inspection Act and Poultry Products Inspection Act to allow processors, butchers or other retailers to sell normal retail quantities (300 lbs. of beef, 100 lbs. of pork, 27.5 lbs. of lamb) of State Inspected Meat online to consumers across state lines.

Allow new direct-to-consumer options for producers, processors and small meat markets.

Maintains traceability of sales easily accessed in the event of a recall.

Allows retail sales to consumers, minimizing the risk for further processing in export, keeping equivalency agreements with trading partners intact.

Allow states operating under the Cooperative Interstate Shipping system to ship and label as they are currently.

This bill is supported by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Sheep Industry Association, U.S. Cattlemen's Association, South Dakota Cattlemen's Association, SD Pork Producers Council and South Dakota Farm Bureau.

""Over the past few months, more Americans looked to e-commerce to purchase essential goods like beef and an already booming online marketplace further evolved to facilitate purchases and meet consumer demands,"" said Marty Smith, President of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. ""The American beef supply chain must evolve to keep up with the speed of commerce and the demands of modern-day consumers. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association supports the Direct Interstate Retail Exemption for Certain Transactions (DIRECT) Act because it helps make it easier for the American cattle producer to meet the growing demand of the American consumer to purchase safe and delicious U.S. beef.""

""Through the COVID-19 pandemic we have experienced a trend for consumers wanting to source beef directly from ranchers,"" said Eric Jennings, President of the South Dakota Cattlemen's Association. ""Two of the challenges SD beef producers have faced in developing a direct sales market are a limited population of consumers and very few federally inspected processing facilities. Online sales represent an opportunity for our beef producers to expand their market beyond our limited rural population, but they have been restricted in their broader marketing efforts by prohibitions on interstate shipment of state inspected meat, coupled with few federally inspected plants. South Dakota has had an excellent state meat inspection system that is equivalent to federal meat inspection for many years. This bill will allow our producers more freedoms for interstate commerce while still providing a safe beef product for consumers. We thank Congressman Johnson for bringing forth this legislation.""

""Small, state inspected processors have filled the void for many producers this year when larger plants shut down. The DIRECT Act would allow state inspected plants to sell their product direct to consumers across state lines. This presents a new opportunity for producers to reach consumers directly through online sales,"" said Scott VanderWal, Vice President of the American Farm Bureau Federation and President of the South Dakota Farm Bureau. ""Consumers wishing to directly order a SD steak would be able to do just that.""

""The bill that Rep. Johnson is introducing is a step to opening up more markets for our local State Inspected Locker plants,"" said Craig Andersen, President of the South Dakota Pork Producers Council. ""Through the last few months these plants have gone to extraordinary levels to help keep pigs in the food chain. They are in need of extra market access for the product they produce. This bill should also make it easier for producers to harvest and give product to local charities.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:12:47Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=14698780-FE07-4D25-A3E8-CB43550B06A2,The Cause of Human Freedom,2020-06-26,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"On July 3, 1986, President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan were in New York to help kick off Liberty Weekend, which celebrated the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and commemorated its 100th anniversary in America.
The next day, on Independence Day, President Reagan addressed the nation from the deck of the U.S.S. John F. Kennedy in New York Harbor. With Lady Liberty in the distance, he said, All through our history, our presidents and leaders have spoken of national unity and warned us that the real obstacle to moving forward the boundaries of freedom  the only permanent danger to the hope that is America  comes from within.
Seemingly reflecting on what he'd just said, Reagan continued, It's easy enough to dismiss this as a kind of familiar exhortation. Yet the truth is that even two of our greatest Founding Fathers, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, once learned this lesson late in life.
It carries me back,' Jefferson wrote about correspondence with his cosigner of the Declaration of Independence [and former political foe], to the times when, beset with difficulties and dangers, we were fellow laborers in the same cause, struggling for what is most valuable to man, his right to self-government. Laboring always at the same oar, with some wave ever ahead threatening to overwhelm us and yet passing harmless  we rowed through the storm with heart and hand '
It was their last gift to us, this lesson in brotherhood, in tolerance for each other, this insight into America's strength as a nation. And when both died on the same day within hours of each other, that date was July 4th, 50 years exactly after that first gift to us, the Declaration of Independence.
Fourth of July will likely look different this year, but once you strip away the parades, and barbeques, and other festivities, it carries the same meaning it always has: America is the greatest country the world has ever known, not only because of what we have achieved, but, as Adams and Jefferson proved, because we're humble enough to know that we always have room to listen, learn, and grow as we continually strive to live up to the founding principles of the Declaration of Independence. 
President Reagan appropriately concluded his remarks in 1986 by saying, [I]f there's one impression I carry with me after the privilege of holding for five-and-a-half years the office held by Adams and Jefferson and Lincoln, it is this: that the things that unite us  far outweigh what little divides us.
And so tonight we reaffirm that Jew and gentile, we are one nation under God; that black and white, we are one nation indivisible; that Republican and Democrat, we are all Americans. Tonight, with heart and hand, through whatever trial and travail, we pledge ourselves to each other and to the cause of human freedom, the cause that has given light to this land and hope to the world.
To my fellow South Dakotans, I challenge you to honor that cause, embrace that light, and carry that hope as you celebrate the birth of American freedom in 2020 and beyond.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-announces-service-academy-class-2024,Johnson Announces Service Academy Class of 2024,2020-06-25,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.) today announced nine South Dakota students who will be attending one of the United States Service Academies. These students were nominated by Johnson and received an appointment to each student's preferred academy.

""Saying it is an honor to nominate students from across our great state to serve our nation doesn't do the moment justice,"" said Johnson. ""These are not ordinary high school graduates. Some grew up knowing they were interested in attending an academy, some grew up in a family with a long line of military service and some have no family military history at all. But what they do have in common is a good moral character, their commitment to our nation's defense and selfless bravery and courage. They all feel called to serve their country and I will be forever grateful.""

The following students were nominated by Rep. Johnson and have since accepted their appointments to attend a United States Service Academy:

United States Naval Academy – Annapolis, MD:

Eleanor Abraham, Brookings High School (Brookings, SD)

Julia Lair, Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls, SD)

Madeline Loewe, Lennox High School (Lennox, SD)

United States Military Academy – West Point, NY:

Enoch Crow, James O'Neill High School (originally from Rapid City, SD; family currently stationed at West Point, NY)

Isaac Buchholtz, T.F. Riggs High School (Pierre, SD)

Max Martin, Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls, SD.

United States Air Force Academy – Colorado Springs, CO:

Corwyn ""Ethan"" Wipf, Rapid City Christian High School (Rapid City, SD)

Pierce Okken, Harrisburg High School (Sioux Falls, SD)

Zachary Curd, O'Gorman High School (Sioux Falls, SD)

The deadline to apply for a Class of 2025 Service Academy nomination is October 30, 2020. For more information on the nomination process, please visit /services/military-academy-nominations.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:12:47Z
https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases/johnson-introduces-legislation-protecting-mount-rushmore,Johnson Introduces Legislation Protecting Mount Rushmore,2020-06-25,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,Dusty Johnson,J000301,dustyjohnson.house.gov,dustyjohnson,https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. –U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) today introduced the Mount Rushmore Protection Act. This legislation prohibits the use of federal funds to alter, change, destroy or remove the likeness, the name of, or any of the faces on the Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

""These presidents championed the cause of freedom,"" said Johnson. ""Those seeking to remove these iconic faces are undermining the contributions these leaders made in pursuit of a more perfect union. Removal would do nothing to move our country forward.""

Full text of Johnson's legislation is linked here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-28T00:12:47Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=3F16F9FE-99AC-4BD0-92D6-406FBF19EB25,Thune: Senate Democrats Filibuster Policing Reform Debate and Put Politics Ahead of Change,2020-06-24,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today, prior to Senate Democrats voting to block debate from even commencing, discussed the American people's desire to have a policing reform debate in this country. Thune also discussed Sen. Tim Scott's (R-S.C.) Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere (JUSTICE) Act, an extensive bill that focuses on a number of common-sense, bipartisan priorities. Thune believes that while this legislation might not be perfect, both Republicans and Democrats should at least be able to support getting on the bill to begin having this important conversation.
Excerpt of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, in just a few minutes, we will vote on whether to move forward on Senator Scott's policing reform bill.
We are at a turning point in our country's history  a moment when Americans of every background and political persuasion are united in a call for change.
And we have a chance to give it to them.
Over the course of the next two weeks, we have a chance to pass legislation that will permanently reform policing in this country.
Legislation that will improve training, increase accountability, and give increased security to families who worry that their son or daughter could be the next George Floyd or Breonna Taylor.
Senator Scott's legislation  the Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere Act or JUSTICE Act  is the product of years of serious work.
It is an extensive bill that focuses on a number of areas that call for reform.
One of the most important sections of the bill is the George Floyd and Walter Scott Notification Act, which would correct deficiencies in law enforcement reporting of use-of-force incidents.
Right now, the FBI National Use of Force Data Collection only receives data on about 40 percent of law enforcement officers.
That needs to change.
The only way we can understand the scope of the problems we're facing is to have full and accurate data.
A complete data picture will allow us to pinpoint problems, identify troubled police departments, and develop best practices for use-of-force and de-escalation training.
There are many police departments across our nation that are doing an excellent job of policing and that are keenly interested in becoming still better.
I recently met with local law enforcement leaders back home in South Dakota.
Among other things, they have been participating in listening sessions with the community since George Floyd's death and are supportive of new measures that will help ensure that every officer is doing his or her job in the best possible way.
But while there are a lot of excellent police departments out there, there are also troubled departments  departments that fail to train their officers properly or that overlook officer misbehavior.
And we need to identify those departments and demand their reform.
Collecting full and accurate data on use-of-force incidents will help us do that.
Another important section of the JUSTICE Act focuses on police de-escalation and duty-to-intervene training.
Sometimes police end up using force in situations where it could have been avoided simply because they lack the necessary training to de-escalate a situation without the use of force.
It may be understandable that well-meaning but overwhelmed police officers in dangerous circumstances have sometimes resorted to the use of force too quickly.
But that's not a situation we can accept.
Every police officer in this country should be given the kind of training that will ensure that use of force is restricted only to those situations where it is absolutely needed.
Mr. President, another key area of the bill  one that is absolutely essential to getting bad cops off the streets  deals with law enforcement records retention.
Too often, law enforcement officers with problematic records  like multiple excessive-use-of-force complaints  manage to transfer to new jurisdictions because the hiring police department never sees their full record.
That's a problem.
Bad cops should not be able to find a new home in another jurisdiction.
And we can prevent that from happening by ensuring that every police department is able to access the full disciplinary record of any officer it is looking to hire.
The JUSTICE Act would help make sure those records are readily available by requiring police departments to keep officer records for at least 30 years.
It would also require any police department hiring a new officer to obtain a full employment and disciplinary record for that officer from all of his previous departments.
Mr. President, there are a lot of other important measures in the JUSTICE Act, from funding for body cameras to expanding minority hiring to developing policing best practices.
With this legislation, we have a real chance to improve policing in this country and ensure that every officer is held to the highest standards.
But our ability to do that, Mr. President, is going to depend on one thing: Democrats' willingness to come to the table.
It was disheartening to see Democrats dismissing Senator Scott's bill before it had even been released, especially because many of the proposals in the bill are taken directly from earlier bipartisan bills.
And now the word is that Democrats are planning to block this bill  without even allowing it to be considered on the floor.
Mr. President, Democrats have spent a lot of time talking about police reform.
But if they want to actually achieve reform, and not just talk about it, they're going to have to decide to move beyond politics.
Senator Scott's bill is a serious, wide-ranging bill.
It's a commonsense bill.
It's a bill that all of us, whatever our party, should be able to agree on.
And if Democrats have changes they'd like to make, the leader has made it clear that there will be opportunity for amendments.
To refuse to even allow debate on this bill suggests that Democrats are more interested in attempting to score political points on this issue than in actually doing anything about reform.
Mr. President, I hope what we're hearing about Democrats' plans to block this bill is wrong.
I hope, I really hope, that we are going to see Democrats come to the table and vote to move forward with debate on this legislation.
We have a chance to do something important here. A historic chance.
With the JUSTICE Act, we can permanently improve policing in this country and bring real hope to those who have lost faith in law enforcement.
But we're going to have to stand together to get this done.
I urge my colleagues to vote to move forward on the JUSTICE Act and start the process of reform.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=A175FBFE-98F7-4B8F-9F9C-29B9289CEE74,"Thune, Schatz Introduce Legislation to Update Section 230, Strengthen Rules, Transparency on Online Content Moderation, Hold Internet Companies Accountable for Moderation Practices",2020-06-24,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation and the Internet, today joined Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), ranking member of the subcommittee, in introducing the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency (PACT) Act, new bipartisan legislation to update Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. The PACT Act will strengthen transparency in the process online platforms use to moderate content and hold those companies accountable for content that violates their own policies or is illegal.
There is a bipartisan consensus that Section 230, which governs certain internet use, is ripe for reform, said Thune. There is also a bipartisan concern that social media platforms are often not transparent and accountable enough to consumers with respect to the platform's moderation of user-generated content. That's why I'm proud to join Sen. Schatz in introducing the PACT Act, which would strengthen online transparency, accountability, and consumer protection. It would, among other things, require technology companies to have an acceptable use policy that reasonably informs users about the content that is allowed on platforms and provide notice to users that there is a process to dispute content moderation decisions. The internet has thrived because of the light touch approach by which it's been governed in its relatively short history. By using that same approach when it comes to Section 230 reform, we can ensure platform users are protected, while also holding companies accountable.
Section 230 was created to help jumpstart the internet economy, while giving internet companies the responsibility to set and enforce reasonable rules on content. But today, it has become clear that some companies have not taken that responsibility seriously enough, said Schatz. Our bill updates Section 230 by making platforms more accountable for their content moderation policies and providing more tools to protect consumers.
Enacted in 1996, Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1934 offers broad immunity to internet companies for hosting user-generated content and provides protection for platforms that take an active role moderating content on their sites. More than two decades later, while Section 230 has allowed the internet economy to thrive, these protections have led to inconsistent, opaque content moderation practices, a lack of online platform accountability, and an inability to enforce federal regulations in the digital world.

The Schatz-Thune PACT Act creates more transparency by:
 
Requiring online platforms to explain their content moderation practices in an acceptable use policy that is easily accessible to consumers;
Implementing a quarterly reporting requirement for online platforms that includes disaggregated statistics on content that has been removed, demonetized, or deprioritized; and
Promoting open collaboration and sharing of industry best practices and guidelines through a National Institute of Standards and Technology-led voluntary framework.
 

The PACT Act will hold platforms accountable by:
 
Requiring large online platforms to provide process protections to consumers by having a defined complaint system that processes reports and notifies users of moderation decisions within 14 days, and allows consumers to appeal online platforms' content moderation decisions within the relevant company;
Amending Section 230 to require large online platforms to remove court-determined illegal content and activity within 24 hours; and
Allowing small online platforms to have more flexibility in responding to user complaints, removing illegal content, and acting on illegal activity, based on their size and capacity.
 

The PACT Act will protect consumers by:
 
Exempting the enforcement of federal civil laws from Section 230 so that online platforms cannot use it as a defense when federal regulators, like the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission, pursue civil actions for online activity;
Allowing state attorneys general to enforce federal civil laws against online platforms that have the same substantive elements of the laws and regulations of that state; and
Requiring the Government Accountability Office to study and report on the viability of an FTC-administered whistleblower program for employees or contractors of online platforms.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=EB49DB01-7681-4DCD-AF8C-FEAEC6C8A484,"Thune, Smith Introduce Bill to Ease Application Process for the Impact Aid Program During COVID-19 Pandemic",2020-06-24,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) today introduced the Impact Aid Coronavirus Relief Act, legislation that would allow school districts participating in the Impact Aid Program to use their student headcount from the 2020-2021 school year, which have already been calculated, on their Impact Aid applications for the 2021-2022 school year. School districts will begin to complete their Impact Aid applications for the 2021-2022 school year this fall, and this bill would ensure that schools do not need to recalculate federally connected students during the uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Impact Aid is a program that reimburses school districts located on federal property or for their students that live on federal land and, therefore, collect less in local property taxes to fund their schools.
There are several school districts throughout the state of South Dakota that rely on the Impact Aid Program to help support their schools and students, said Thune. By allowing these school districts to use prior-year student headcounts on their Impact Aid applications this fall, we can ensure that school districts across the state will have the funding they need during these uncertain times and will continue benefiting from this important program.
As we continue torespond tothe coronavirus pandemic we need to make sure that schoolsin Minnesotahave strong investments so students cankeep learning,saidSmith.Wehave a special obligationtofederallyimpactedschools, which are located inschooldistricts with a significant amount ofnontaxablelandand because ofthat receive direct federal payments.I'mgladto workwith Sen. Thune tohelpensure that nextfall'sImpact Aidapplications and student counts are not disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic.
As federally impacted school districts develop our plans for the next school year, we appreciate Senators Thune and Smith for addressing our concerns about conducting accurate Impact Aid student counts, said Chad Blotsky, president of the National Association of Federally Impacted Schools and Finance Director of the Todd County School District.This legislation is a commonsense way to enable all 1200-plus federally impacted school districts  including Indian lands, military and federal property school districts  to submit timely applications while keeping our staff and communities safe. In my state of South Dakota, there are 37 Impact Aid school districts, representing all aspects of the program.The National Association of Federally Impacted Schools supports this legislation and thanks Senators Thune and Smith or their leadership.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/op-eds?ContentRecord_id=60CA7114-2AD9-4F7E-AE8E-C5BB81077EFD,Investing in the Future of Agriculture,2020-06-19,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Unlike the majority of the economy, which was thriving before the coronavirus pandemic, the agriculture economy had been struggling for a while. Low prices, extended trade disputes, and natural disasters had meant a tough few years for farmers and ranchers even before the coronavirus hit. Now things are even more challenging.
Agriculture is the lifeblood of South Dakota, so supporting farmers and ranchers during this crisis has been one of my top priorities.I fought to get agriculture relief money included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act  the CARES Act  which was signed into law in late March. The final bill included $14 billion to replenish the Commodity Credit Corporation to allow the Department of Agriculture to provide income and price support for farmers and ranchers, plus an additional $9.5 billion in emergency support for agriculture producers affected by the pandemic.
Over the past few months, I've kept in frequent contact with the Department of Agriculture and others to amplify producers' concerns and urge swift relief.I've also been focused on developing additional legislation to help farmers and ranchers weather this crisis.
I recently introduced legislation to allow emergency haying and grazing on Conservation Reserve Program acres for the duration of this crisis. Under current law, agriculture producers can hay or graze their CRP acres during weather-related disasters without a reduction in their CRP payments. My legislation would extend that provision to cover pandemics, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
I also introduced the Paycheck Protection for Producers Act, which will help more farmers and ranchers benefit from the Paycheck Protection Program. The coronavirus relief legislation we passed in late March established the Paycheck Protection Program, which provides forgivable loans to small businesses to help them keep their employees on their payroll during this crisis. Self-employed Americans, which describes many farmers and ranchers, are eligible for these loans. But in practice, the program's guidelines have excluded a lot of agriculture producers.
Low commodity prices and a challenging planting season meant that many farmers and ranchers had a negative net income in 2019. And right now the program's guidelines exclude farmers or ranchers without employees with a negative net income for last year. My legislation would allow more farmers to access the Paycheck Protection Program by allowing them to use their 2019 gross income instead of their 2019 net income when applying for a loan.
In addition to direct relief, another thing we can do to support our nation's agriculture producers is to support the ethanol industry, which has stepped up to help during the coronavirus crisis by providing ethanol, or alcohol, for hand sanitizer. I imagine there are few Americans who haven't significantly stepped up their purchase of hand sanitizer during the current crisis. To help us meet this need, I introduced the Hand Sanitizer Guidance Extension Act of 2020.Put simply, my bill will extend the Food and Drug Administration's temporary ethanol-based hand sanitizer guidance for at least two years. This will give ethanol producers that have made investments or changes in operations to meet the need for hand sanitizer a longer time to recoup those costs.
To further improve the bottom line of ethanol operators, I also introduced bipartisan legislation to override Environmental Protection Agency inaction that has blocked producers from using their investments at scale to make cellulosic biofuel. Advancing corn kernel fiber registrations, for example, will add value to the corn crop and help increase margins until fuel demand is restored and our economy rebounds.
The coronavirus crisis has highlighted just how much we rely on our nation's agriculture producers. I am grateful every day for their work. And advocating for them will continue to be one of my top priorities. I am committed to helping our farmers and ranchers through the challenges they're facing and seeing our nation's agriculture economy thrive.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=1D209884-1F6F-49E9-8B54-4F715F326642,Thune Introduces Bill to Advance Rural Broadband Services,2020-06-18,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, today introduced the Rural Connectivity Advancement Program (RCAP) Act of 2020, legislation that would capture a portion of the proceeds from spectrum auctions conducted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) through September 30, 2022, for the buildout of broadband networks. The FCC would be able to utilize the funds to support broadband deployment in rural America.
It is critical that South Dakotans in every corner of our state have reliable broadband services, said Thune. The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the need to ensure that we provide rural areas, not just in South Dakota, but throughout the entire United States, with reliable broadband connectivity. My bill would take an important step toward the goal of closing the digital divide and does so in a responsible manner.
NTCA wholeheartedly endorses this legislation and thanks Senator Thune for his leadership on this bill. For years, he has been one of the strongest proponents in Washington for ensuring that every American has access to the communications services necessary for online commerce, remote education, telehealth, and civic engagement in today's world, said Shirley Bloomfield, CEO of NTCA. The legislation introduced today represents yet another measure of that leadership and a reaffirmed commitment to achieving the goal of universal service. The Rural Connectivity Advancement Program Act would leverage efforts that have already proven effective in tackling connectivity challenges in rural America, and provide much-needed resources to help the FCC build upon the successes thus far of these existing programs to close the remaining digital divide.
We thank Senator Thune for introducing the Rural Connectivity Advancement Program Act, which recognizes the importance of ensuring all Americans have access to broadband, especially those in rural areas, and seeks to provide the necessary resources to close the digital divide, said Kelly Cole, senior vice president of government affairs of CTIA.
Senator Thune understands the value of 21stcentury connectivity and the power and promise of broadband  especially for unserved parts of rural America, Jonathan Spalter, president and CEO of USTelecom. This bill recognizes the essential public-private partnership necessary to deploy high-speed broadband to every corner of the country and narrow the digital divide.
""Today more than ever, broadband connectivity is a necessity  not a luxury, said Lisa Youngers, president and CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association. The Fiber Broadband Association and its members support the Rural Connectivity Advancement Program Act and appreciate this effort to bring unconnected rural communities into the 21st century with high-speed access. By establishing a permanent funding source for rural broadband that will supplement current resources and utilize existing programs, this bill has the potential to deliver rapid results for rural Americans in more communities across our country. We are thankful to Senator Thune for his forward-looking leadership and remain committed to working with Congress to bridge the digital divide and connect all Americans, both rural and urban, with high-speed fiber broadband.
NATE commends Sen. John Thune for his continued strong leadership on communications issues that benefit citizens, companies, and industries throughout the United States, said Todd Schlekeway, president and CEO of NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association. We are particularly pleased to endorse the Rural Connectivity Advancement Program Act of 2020,' legislation he is introducing today. This bill will help to promote broadband services in rural America by providing funding for communications infrastructure expansion.
Specifically, RCAP would:
 
Set-aside 10 percent of the net proceeds from spectrum auctions for the buildout of broadband networks;
Require the FCC to utilize the funds provided by RCAP to address gaps that remain in broadband internet access service coverage in high-cost rural areas;
Allow the FCC to use the funds provided by RCAP in a technology-neutral manner to address shortfalls in sufficient funding of existing USF High-Cost Programs for the buildout of broadband services;
Require the FCC to consider the broadband internet access service needs of residents of tribal lands; and
 Require the FCC to produce an annual report on the distribution of funds established under this act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=400BC10B-6717-4A2F-A155-5D05E4954B00,"Thune, Brown Introduce Bill to Relieve Mobile and Remote Workers of Unfair Tax Burdens Caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic",2020-06-18,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Taxation and IRS Oversight, and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, todayintroducedthe Remote and Mobile Worker Relief Act (S. 3995), bipartisanlegislationthat would ensure that medical professionals from around the country who supported areas hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic do not face unexpected or increased state income tax bills. The bill would also address potential problems remote workers are facing during the pandemic, including the possibility of having their state income taxes become out of balance because they worked from home in a different state than their ordinary place of employment during the pandemic.
Doctors and nurses who voluntarily crossed state lines to help during the pandemic  in some cases sacrificing vacation time to do so  should not be at risk of facing a much higher or unexpected tax bill as a reward for their service and sacrifice, said Thune. This situation is even worse for residents of states like my home state of South Dakota that don't have a state income tax against which a credit can be claimed. This bill ensures these mobile workers are not unfairly taxed, while also providing certainty for those who are working remotely.
Healthcare workers have been on the frontlines of this pandemic for months now, said Brown. Not only are they combatting this virus in their own communities, but many of them have travelled across state lines to help in areas that have been hit hardest. A surprise tax bill is the last thing they need. We should make it easier for these mobile workers to support themselves and their families.
S. 3995 builds off of Thune and Brown's Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act, which they introduced early last year, by establishing a special 90-day standard for health care workers who traveled to another state to help during the pandemic. The change would help ensure that no health care worker faces an unexpected tax bill for the contributions he or she made to fighting the coronavirus. The bill would also provide relief to remote workers by maintaining the tax status quo. This would protect employees who have been displaced by the virus and are working remotely and make sure they continue to have their income taxed as if they were still going to their physical office every day.
Thune recently wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal highlighting the urgent need for this legislation.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=0A15516D-654B-4DAE-9201-8C136C77A50B,"Thune on Fox Business: We Want to Pass a Law to Reform Policing, Show Americans We Hear Them",2020-06-17,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today joined Fox Business' CAVUTO Live to discuss the Republican-led JUSTICE Act, sponsored by Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.),aimed atimproving policing in America. Thune also discussed legislation he'll be introducingtohelp relieve remote and mobile workers of unfair tax burdens  an issue highlighted by the experiences of health care workers during the coronavirus outbreak.
Clickhereor on the image above to watch the video.
Thune on the JUSTICE Act to improve policing in America:
This is a good bill. It's a strong bill. It was put together based upon the consensus of law enforcement around the country, and meetings with members from the African American community. I think that Tim Scott has really done a nice job, and I think he deserves a lot of credit for itUltimately what we want to do is make a law. We want to get a result. We want to demonstrate to the people of this country that we've heard them, that we're listening, and in the end,we want to do some policing reforms.
The question will be whether or not the Democrats actually want a result or they want the issue, and we will find out next week There's common ground out there.What the Democrats want to see happen, Republicans want to see happen, there's 70-75percent overlap.If they'll allow us to get onto the bill, we will open it up to amendments. And if the Democrats have ideas about how to improve it through the amendment process, they'll get that chance.
Let's get a result. Let's put something on the president's desk that actually improves policing in this country and sends a clear message to those out there who are frustrated that Washington isn't listening.

Thune on cities and states having a harder time recovering after COVID-19:
People who are packed into densely populated areas of the country, our bigger cities, may be looking for a little bit more open space, and I also think a lot of that has to do with our tax policies  this may be an opportunity for people to give consideration to another place around the country, say South Dakota, where we have low taxes.

Thune on his Remote and Mobile Worker Relief Act:
The state of New York, if you can believe this, will tax people who have volunteered to go in there to provide COVID relief. So heath care workers who have gone to New York they're considered under New York tax law, and they have to pay the income tax. They're required to do that. I have a bill that would relieve them of that responsibility. 

Thune on America's relationship with its history:
If there are Confederate generals who don't have good records  and obviously they were people who rebelled against the United States  maybe there are more recent generals that we could name some of our military installations after.So I think it's okay to have that discussion. I'm open to that.
But classics like Gone With the Wind and some of the other things that are now being banned from some of the content providers in this country, it seems to me at least that you can carry this discussion too farThere are stains on our history. We've learned from them. We're continually trying to improve. We want to be a more perfect union and a place where everybody is equal under the law  that's what we aspire to. But we can sometimes go too far with some of these crusades.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
http://www.thune.senate.gov//public/index.cfm/press-releases?ContentRecord_id=164016B4-3E21-4A7D-B9E4-D7B3DABC65A7,Thune: Proud to Support JUSTICE Act Police Reform Bill,2020-06-17,2020,2020-06,Republican,House,SD,John Thune,T000250,www.thune.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington
		
		
		U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) today discussed Sen. Tim Scott's (R-S.C.) Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere (JUSTICE) Act, which addresses various aspects of policing reform. The JUSTICE Act would provide funding to improve police officer training, hiring, and the use of body worn cameras. It would also discourage the use of certain techniques and practices by leveraging federal funds, call for the development of best policing practices, and require additional reporting on issues such as use of force. Thune is a cosponsor of the JUSTICE Act.
Click here or on the picture above to watch Thune's speech.
Excerpt of Thune's remarks below:
Mr. President, in the wake of the recent tragic deaths of several African-Americans at the hands of the police, our country has reached a turning point.
Americans of every race, background, and political persuasion are calling for change.
Too many Americans feel unsafe right now.
Too many Americans live in fear that what happened to George Floyd could happen to their own fathers and sons and brothers.
Too many Americans see in law enforcement officers individuals to be feared rather than trusted.
Americans are ready for all that to end.
They want reform and increased accountability.
They want to make sure that we are holding our law enforcement officers to the highest standards.
And they want their fellow Americans to feel confident that what happened to George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and too many others will not happen to their loved ones.
Mr. President, members of Congress have been listening.
I have been listening.
And today I am proud to rise in support of Senator Scott's policing reform bill, which I am co-sponsoring.
Senator Scott's Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere Act  or JUSTICE Act  is the product of a lot of serious work  years of it, in fact.
The JUSTICE Act is an extensive bill that addresses various aspects of policing reform.
One important section of the bill is the George Floyd and Walter Scott Notification Act, which would correct deficiencies in law enforcement reporting of use-of-force incidents.
Right now, the FBI National Use of Force Data Collection only receives data on about 40 percent of law enforcement officers.
That needs to change.
The only way we can understand the scope of the problems we're facing is to have full and accurate data.
A complete data picture will allow us to pinpoint problems, identify troubled police departments, and develop best practices for use-of-force and de-escalation training.
There are many, many police departments across our nation that are doing an exemplary job of policing, that have excellent relationships with the community, and that are already implementing a lot of best practices.
But there are also more troubled police departments.
Police departments that fail to train their officers properly or overlook officer misbehavior.
And we need to identify those police departments and demand their reform.
Collecting full and accurate data on use-of-force incidents will help us do that.
Mr. President, one policing measure that has been found to reduce both officers' use of force and complaints against police officers is body cameras.
Body-worn cameras record every officer interaction with the community, which encourages appropriate behavior and helps to create an accurate record of events.
These cameras keep both citizens and police officers safer.
But implementing the use of these cameras can be costly, as can storing the copious data that accumulates.
So the JUSTICE Act will create a new grant program to help local police departments purchase body-worn cameras and associated data storage.
Funding eligibility will be conditional on the department's implementation of best practices for these cameras, and any department that fails to properly use the cameras it has purchased using the grant program will face a reduction in federal funding.
Another important section of the JUSTICE Act focuses on police de-escalation and duty-to-intervene training.
Sometimes police end up using force in situations where it could have been avoided simply because they lack the necessary training to de-escalate a situation without the use of force.
It may be understandable that well-meaning but overwhelmed police officers in dangerous circumstances have sometimes resorted to the use of force too quickly.
But that's not a situation we can accept.
Every police officer in this country should be given the kind of training that will ensure that use of force is restricted only to those situations where it is absolutely needed.
Mr. President, I expect to see a lot of support for this bill from my Republican colleagues here in the Senate.
And I wouldn't be surprised if this bill receives a lot of support from law enforcement as well.
Because, Mr. President, most of our nation's law enforcement officers want to implement policing best practices.
They want to develop strong relationships with the communities they protect.
They want to avoid use-of-force incidents that place both officers and suspects in jeopardy.
I met with local law enforcement leaders in my home state of South Dakota last Friday, and what I heard from them was a real desire to do everything they can to serve every member of their communities.
They've already been participating in forums to listen to community concerns in the wake of George Floyd's death.
And they're supportive of JUSTICE Act measures to help departments expand their minority hiring, to improve de-escalation training, to develop and promulgate best practices.
So I wouldn't be surprised if they and a lot of other law enforcement agencies end up backing this bill.
I really hope Democrats will come to the table.
Senator Scott has produced a bill that should have the support of every member of the Senate.
I hope that it will.
Mr. President, we've made a lot of progress as a nation when it comes to overcoming the sins of our past.
But it would be a mistake to think that because we've made progress our work is over.
There is still much to be done and many wounds to heal.
And we must make those tasks a priority.
We must continue to work toward a more perfect union.
Toward the full realization of our founding promise that all men are created equal.
Toward an America where there is truly liberty and justice for all.
Mr. President, I yield the floor.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z